Carpenter for Heavy Civil, Meriden I-91-I-691
Hired: April 2024
How long have you been in the construction industry?
40 years; 12 years non-union and 28 years as a union member
How did you get started in the construction industry?
I worked as a non-union carpenter for a small construction company. We did a lot of concrete work, small additions, garages, backfilling, draining, and more. On big floor pours my boss would hire union masons to help with the project. This made me want to join the union to secure my job. I talked to the masons for advice on how to join the union. I got in touch with the laborer’s union and got in, securing my future in the industry.
Describe your role.
I do anything and everything I am asked to do. On my current job, I am working as a carpenter tender, which means I work alongside the carpenters to make sure the work site is always clean and organized, and all our work is in order at the end of the day. I also do any dirt work that might need to be done.
What is most exciting/fulfilling about your role?
I love that I can solely support myself my grandchildren, and my household. I can do this without anyone’s help because of my hard work and good work ethic. For this I am grateful. I also enjoy the physical aspect of working in construction. It keeps my body moving, and me fit.
What skills do you think are essential for success in the construction field, and how have you developed them?
- Most importantly, you show up every day unless you have a really good reason not to, or an emergency.
- Always be on time; if you are five minutes late you are still late.
- Always conduct yourself in a professional way; be ready to work when you get to the job site, not ten minutes later.
- Work hard, as you should, because you are getting paid well.
- Respect your job, your company, and your coworkers.
- Always try to learn something from everyone around you.
- Stay focused and aware of your surroundings.
How does the company support you in your role?
O&G has many women on projects because the company knows we can be an asset on any job site! Women are not discriminated against at O&G; we are equals. The company has zero tolerance for inappropriate behavior.
