Tell us about your journey into the Oregon Laborers, what made you choose to become a construction craft laborer apprentice?
I started with my company as a carpenter helper as I wanted to be a carpenter in the future. However, my coworkers did not treat me with any respect and had me only sweep floors for 8 hours every day for 3 months, until finally the laborers noticed and had me clean with them. Over time I started doing more labor-related work, especially concrete. After a few months working with the laborers, I discovered I really enjoyed that kind of work and I switched my books over to LiUNA.

How has being in the apprenticeship program impacted your life?
It has given me many good friends and a stable career at a young age.

What advice would you give others who are interested in joining our program or are just starting out?
Listen to the people who have done this kind of work for years, they know what they’re doing and they don’t want to see you unhappy or fail.