Hank, there is no way to verify training just by signing when it's a non-union crew from out of state. If it was a union crew, no matter where from, they are assumed to be equally qualified as all others in the same position. I believe the signing with the union(required by the Utility) has to do with complying with the working rules/conditions/methods the Utility and the union in that area have agreed to concerning the construction of the distribution system, maybe some liabilty. The union will be getting some money from the members of the crew, which is based on number of hours worked by the man, here in Seattle it would equate to about 1.25 an hour, don't know the amount for NJ, it's voted on by the members locally.