What’s your favorite thing about working on your crew?
The camaraderie and the trust. Working with people you get along with—and people you know will get things done—does wonders for jobsite morale.
If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do with your winnings?
After hiring financial planners, accountants, lawyers, and handling all the responsible stuff, I’d probably go on a nice, long vacation.
How do you stay updated on the latest industry trends, technologies, and safety protocols?
I’m a big researcher. I’m always surfing the web for the latest and greatest. Anything you want to know, you can find on the internet.
What are some of your hobbies or interests outside of work?
I like to go to the gym, and I’m a big sports fan. Go Birds!
What’s one thing you personally must have with you on a jobsite?
A positive and ambitious attitude. Toward the beginning of my career, I faced many personal challenges outside of work, and I let it affect me at the jobsite. I had to work on some things, and having the right focus daily has completely changed my experience as a carpenter.
Cats or dogs? And why?
Dogs, hands down. More loyal. More personality. More fun.
What’s the best piece of advice you’d give an apprentice, or what’s the best advice you received as an apprentice?
I’d tell the apprentice the same thing that was told to me—two things. The first is pretty cliché but important in this business: Show up to work on time every day, focused and ready to work. Second, learn everything you can and take advantage of any opportunities to add to your skill set.
Can you share one new thing you’ve learned on the job or a best practice that helps save you time, energy, or keeps you safer?
To go over everything thoroughly in your head before the day begins. Just taking a few minutes to think about the game plan has helped me save time—like avoiding extra trips to the gangbox. It also helps keep me busy and keeps things running smoothly.
How do you manage stress and maintain a positive mindset in a high-pressure environment like construction?
Fortunately for me, working as a carpenter has never felt like a job. I love what I do, so it’s easy to stay positive. Not letting negative people influence you with their attitudes is key.