Tell me about your journey into construction. Where did you start and where are you now?
I graduated from UW-La Crosse in 2018 and really didn’t have any idea what I wanted to do post college. I ended up taking an entry level sales job and after working for several years I found myself unhappy and unfulfilled. I wanted a career where I could be physically active, challenged, and make a meaningful impact. I am now a 2nd year apprentice with Westphal and am very happy with the decision I made.
How did you get interested in a career in construction?
I have several family members in construction trades and after having conversations with them about their experience and seeing how they have been able to provide for their families, it was clear that it was the right path for me.
What’s the best part of your job?
The best part of my job is the satisfaction that comes with completing a task or project and being able to take pride in a job well done.
Biggest takeaway from your apprenticeship?
There are a lot of takeaways that I could share but I think the biggest one is simply the realization that I will never stop learning. It can be uncomfortable going into situations where you don’t know all the answers but I have been lucky to have some amazing guidance along the way.
How long have you been with WCO?
I have been with Westphal for a little over 2 years.
What advice do you have for someone looking for a career in the trades?
My advice would be to not let the fear of the unknown stop you from taking the career you want. The amount of apprenticeship opportunities for young people in the trades is incredible. I don’t regret my path into electrical construction because it shaped me into who I am, but I sometimes think about where I would be today if I had a bigger push towards the trades at a younger age.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome in your career so far?
I’ve mentioned it a few times already but having to get comfortable being uncomfortable has been the biggest challenge I’ve faced. It is natural to want to not venture outside of the things we already know and understand but it isn’t until you get outside of those confines that we really start to grow as people.
Where are you looking to go from here?
Right now I am simply focused on learning a little more everyday and being a little better than I was yesterday. I look forward to continuing to grow as an electrician and Westphal has been an amazing company to do just that!
