#Duckumentary - Mikenson Michaud

What’s your favorite thing about working on your crew?

My favorite thing about working on our crew is the strong sense of camaraderie and collaboration we have; everyone is always willing to help each other out, share ideas, and work hard. This breeds successes together, which makes even the most challenging tasks feel manageable and enjoyable.

If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do with your winnings?

This question is the most difficult because I have never played the lottery in my entire life, and I don't think I ever will. I'm not the type to rely on luck to achieve something.

How do you stay updated on the latest industry trends, technologies, and safety protocols?

With this question I realize how much effort it takes to stay updated on the latest industry trends. I regularly read industry publications, read and analyze posts of thought leaders on professional social networks, attend online conferences and workshops, and stay in touch with people in the same field. I also join professional organizations and actively look for training that can help me stay informed of emerging developments.

Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests?

I love spending quality time with my loved ones. I like to read and enjoy listening to music, dancing and cooking with my wife and children. I enjoy teaching the Bible to people around me when I find the opportunity. From time to time, I go to professional websites to inform myself and stay up to date on different topics.

What’s one thing you personally must have with you on a job site?

My lunch box. The funny thing is that I often have only water inside.

Cats or dogs? And why?

For me this is the simplest question to answer: Dog. Maybe some people will disagree but for me, dogs have a special ability to connect and bond in a very sincere way with humans. Dogs are man's true and faithful friends. Just like you can meet a person and become attached to him, a dog can meet a person and feel a strong, genuine connection, not just for food.

What’s the best piece of advice you’d give an apprentice or what’s the best piece of advice you received as an apprentice?

Practice humility. Be always eager to learn. Don't think you know everything, even things you've been doing for years. Be like an empty glass, always seeking to be filled with knowledge by others.

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 on the job?

When we have made a mistake, it is like an open door to several other errors and therefore a strong possibility of wasting a lot of time, energy, and putting ourselves in danger. In this case, all we must do when we have made a mistake is simply trying to close as much as possible this open door to other errors by following the following steps:

1. Be aware of the mistake: That means realize and admit that you made a mistake.
2. Stay Calm and don’t panic.
3. Take control. Do not hide the mistake. Accept blame, correction, or advice.
4. Take time to learn from the mistake.
5. Take the necessary actions to correct the mistake and avoid it in the future.

How do you manage stress and maintain a positive mindset in a high-pressure environment like construction?

The first thing for me is to stay balanced. I always enjoy the time with my loved ones and prioritizing sleep. Work is work but home is home, do everything possible not to bring work home. Of course, it can happen occasionally but should be very rare. Always have clear communication with colleagues, setting realistic goals, identifying stress triggers, and actively seeking support from others when needed.