Operator / Street Sweeper Operator, Southbury
Hired: April 2024
How long have you been in the construction industry?
I have been in the construction industry since I started with O&G in April of 2024.
How did you get started in the construction industry?
Construction is a big part of my family! My father, Kevin, who runs Stamford Repair and has been with O&G for 18 years, helped me get the job here. My brother, Kristoffer, runs the sweeper in Bridgeport. He has been with O&G for 11 years. My sister-in-law, Julie, works in payroll and has been with the company for 10 years. And my stepmom, Kate, has run the parts department in Southbury for the last three years. Having so many family members at O&G made it feel like the right place to be, and I have really enjoyed becoming part of the team.
Describe your role.
As a street sweeper operator, my job is to keep multiple O&G locations clean and safe. I travel from the Southbury facility to Beacon Falls Concrete Plant and Fabrication Yard, Waterbury Asphalt and Mason Yard, Prospect Quarry, Woodbury Quarry, and to the Mason Yard, South Main Repair Facility, and the Bogue Road Asphalt and Concrete Plant in Torrington. Occasionally I also travel to the mason yard in Hartford. My role is essential in maintaining a safe working environment by keeping roads and yards clear of debris, reducing dust, and ensuring smooth operations.
What is most exciting/fulfilling about your role?
I enjoy seeing the immediate results of my work. Keeping the quarries and plants clean helps to prevent hazards and improves efficiency, making a real difference in daily operations. Plus, I like the independence of traveling between different locations and operating the sweeper, it keeps things interesting.
What skills do you think are essential for success in the construction field, and how have you developed them?
Time management, adaptability, and attention to detail are critical in my role. Covering multiple locations means I have to stay organized and efficient, ensuring that every site is cleaned properly. Operating heavy equipment safely and effectively is also essential, and I’ve developed those skills through hands-on experience and training.
How does the company support you in your role?
O&G provides the equipment and resources I need to do my job effectively. The company recognizes the importance of maintaining clean job sites, and I feel supported knowing that my work is valued.
What is your advice for other women looking to enter the construction industry?
Don’t be afraid to step into the field and prove yourself. Hard work and dedication speak louder than anything, and there’s always room to learn and grow. The industry offers great opportunities, and having confidence in yourself will take you far.
Additional comments from Jessie:
Being part of O&G is more than just a job; it’s a family tradition. I take pride in my work, knowing I’m helping maintain the same sites where my family members also contribute. It’s a demanding but rewarding job, and I’m grateful to be part of a company that values hard work and dedication.
