The only way you are going to grow is by being uncomfortable, and it rings true on my journey as a fourth step Apprentice with Local 1049. Being uncomfortable is a good feeling, it means I’m pushing myself. When I first started out, I would overthink and get in my head about the littlest things – like where to park the truck – but thankfully my unit is that of a brotherhood, they’re always there to help me learn and grow.

Currently I’m with Haugland Group’s Haugland Energy division, learning all aspects of electrical work. My days are filled putting up power lines and handling maintenance duties. It’s been quite a journey with Haugland, and I’m approaching my two year mark this August.

My sister was the first woman in our Local 1049 union to achieve journeyman status, which is incredibly inspiring for me and my family. Growing up, I never realized this was an option. Before following her footsteps, I was an x-ray technician. Discovering this field has been a revelation for me. Unlike the typical school focus on college, this apprenticeship has shown me a challenging yet fulfilling path forward. It has completely changed my outlook on what I can achieve in both my career and life.

Working outdoors and forming a family-like bond with my colleagues is something I really enjoy about this job. There’s a strong sense of camaraderie and trust among us, which is essential when you’re working at heights and handling equipment. Knowing my team has my back and vice versa calms any anxieties I might have had starting out. It’s more than just a job, it’s about looking out for each other and ensuring everyone’s safety. The guys at work have been great mentors, teaching me everything from using power tools to flying buckets safely. It’s empowering to know I’m gaining skills that not many people have, and it’s encouraging to see more women like me considering careers like mine. And although I’m the only woman working on my unit, it never feels that way. The men that I surround myself with everyday instill much confidence and trust in me, so much so that the hour-long commute to work each day is something I enjoy.