As National Apprenticeship Week continues on we are excited to feature another employee of Westphal & Company, Alvin Tillet. While not an apprentice anymore Alvin completed his apprenticeship with us in 2022, and looks forward to the next steps of his career. Alvin will be the foreman on the upcoming Center for Black Excellence Project. Now let’s take some time to learn more about Alvin.
Tell me about your journey into construction. Where did you start and where are you now?
I graduated from high school in 2018 and started as an apprentice with PayneCrest Electric. We were working on the Alliant Riverside power plant in Beloit, WI. I worked there until 2020 when I started with Westphal & Company. I started out with Westphal as a third-year apprentice and now I am a journeyman/foreman.
What or how did you get interested in a career in construction?
My grandpa owned a general contracting/engineering firm, so I think that got me interested in construction. In high school, I took some electrical building classes that pushed me towards this trade.
What’s the best part of your job?
I like the variety of work that involves electricians. Everything is constantly changing, and you have to be able to adapt. I also like working with tools and figuring out how things work.
Biggest takeaway from your apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is the perfect way to learn for many people, especially trades. It’s a hands-on type of education. You also get paid to go to school which is a big plus.
How long have you been with Westphal?
4 years of service with Westphal and Company.
What advice do you have for someone looking for a career in the trades?
If you show up every day on time and work hard, there are many people who are very willing to teach you. If you have the chance to learn something new, soak up as much information as you can. The biggest thing is to remain positive and keep an open mind.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve had to overcome in your career so far?
I think most the challenges are the same things that I enjoy like complicated wiring, problem solving, and working in a fast-paced environment.
Where are you looking to go from here?
I hope to keep working as a foreman and gain experience working in different areas of the electrical trade.
If you or someone you know is interested in learning more about the apprenticeships we offer please use the link here and fill out the contact us form.
