EASTERN Welding Technology Alumnus Spotlight: Justin Dillalogue

Eastern Center for Arts and Technology (EASTERN) 1998 Welding Technology/Abington High School
graduate, Justin Dillalogue, works for Local 1456 as a Commercial Diver. As a union worker,
Dillalogue works for many different companies on a project-by-project basis. Currently, his work has
him in Manhattan rehabilitating a pier at Fulton Fish Market at South Street Seaport. After the pier is
rehabilitated, the Fulton Fish Market, which is a historic landmark, can once again be used for public
use.

Dillalogue was always more of a hands-on learner. His high school counselor told him about EASTERN
and he decided to take a tour. During that tour, Justin met Gary Devine, EASTERN’s Welding
Technology instructor. Mr. Devine talked about the job prospects and opportunities in the welding field
and the money that could be earned.

While at EASTERN Dillalogue saw a magazine ad for Commercial Divers Academy in Camden, NJ.
The underwater welding aspect of the field interested Justin and he knew that was a way to increase his
earning potential using the same trade. After graduation from Commercial Divers Academy, Justin
began working as a non-union diver and traveled throughout the entire United States for about four years
until getting into the union.

“Career and technical high schools do not eliminate you from attending college,” said Dillalogue. “It
provides you with a trade to fall back on. To learn a life-long skill for free in high school saves time and
money in college. I have many friends who should have attended, but didn’t realize it at the time. Even
if you don’t use the skills you gained at EASTERN in your career, a program provides something
valuable and fun, and knowledge that will last a lifetime.”

EASTERN’s Welding Technology program students learn about the properties of different types of
metals and how to join them using state-of-the-art welding equipment. The program prepares students
for success in such career fields as mechanical, aerospace or industrial engineering, physical
metallurgist, business owner, and welding engineer.