Strength in Service: How ICA of New York’s Committees Support Contractors and the Industry

The Insulation Contractors Association of New York (ICA of New York) is more than just a professional network—it’s a community dedicated to strengthening the insulation industry. A major part of this work happens through the Board of Directors’ committees, each of which focuses on a specific area to support contractors, develop the workforce, and ensure the association remains strong and forward-thinking.

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee plays a critical role in ensuring the ICA remains financially sound and accountable to its members. This committee provides financial oversight, helping safeguard the association’s resources and ensuring funds are used responsibly. They also manage risk assessment and compliance, reviewing policies and procedures to meet all legal and regulatory requirements. By regularly reporting to the Board, the Audit Committee ensures transparency and builds trust, keeping the association on a steady foundation for growth.

Trustee Committee

The Trustee Committee works closely with Local 12 Trustees to ensure stability and oversight for ICA and its members. This committee provides guidance on key decisions that impact the association’s long-term strength, helping maintain a solid foundation for both contractors and the workforce. The committee also is responsible for the oversight of the employer benefits plan. By focusing on careful oversight, the Trustee Committee plays a vital role in protecting member interests and fostering a secure future for the industry.

Apprentice Committee

The Apprentice Committee is essential in shaping the future of the insulation trade. This committee is directly involved in growing and developing apprenticeship programs, ensuring that new talent entering Local 12 and the insulation industry is set up for long-term success.

A key part of their work is interviewing and vetting candidates, evaluating both skills and character. Because apprentices represent a four-year investment, choosing the right individuals is critical. The committee selects those with the drive and integrity to become the next generation of skilled mechanics and industry leaders.

The results speak for themselves: over the past decade, nearly every first-year apprentice has advanced to become a mechanic, and many now run work themselves. Within an eight-year window, these individuals develop into well-rounded, highly capable professionals who strengthen the trade.

Long-Term Unemployment Committee

The Long-Term Unemployment Committee focuses on understanding the causes and consequences of extended joblessness in the insulation workforce. Its mission is to reconnect workers to meaningful employment through programs and policies that address both systemic and personal barriers.

The committee’s initiatives include:

- Intensive case management to support workers navigating the job market
- Skills training and reskilling programs for in-demand roles
- Work experience opportunities to gain hands-on practice
- Financial and behavioral health counseling to overcome employment barriers
- Advocacy for supportive policies, including expanded unemployment insurance and employer tax incentives

 Through these efforts, the Long-Term Unemployment Committee helps strengthen the workforce and support the industry.

Marketing Committee

The Marketing Committee is dedicated to raising awareness of ICA, its members, and its collaboration with Local 12. By showcasing the work contractors are doing, the committee highlights how ICA members contribute to advancing the insulation industry.

The committee also focuses on connecting with general contractors and mechanical contractors, promoting the use of union workers on projects. Through communications, events, and outreach, the Marketing Committee ensures ICA and its members are visible, respected, and recognized for their skill, professionalism, and impact on the construction community.

Conclusion

Each of these five committees represents ICA’s collective effort to serve contractors, support the workforce, and advance the insulation industry. From financial oversight and workforce development to marketing and policy advocacy, the committees ensure that ICA remains a resilient, forward-thinking association that delivers value to its members and the broader construction community.