Construction Workers Open Up About Their Careers

Craft workers and their supervisors at the jobsite are indispensable elements of construction success, yet they are little known as individuals. ENR sought out a sample of tradesmen and tradeswomen across the country to better understand their career choices and lives. The profiles that follow show their deep desire for economic security, pride in their work and job conditions that promote safety and dignity.

• Michael Sager, 37, Equipment Operator, Snellville, Ga., Sager Grading and Pipe Line LLC
• Tyrone Ferrens, 48, Electrician, Baltimore, Tessa Electric
• Natasha Arnold, 34, Carpenter, Local 22, San Francisco, Anvil Builders
• Jose S. Lopez-Calderon, 44, Carpenter, Seatac, Wash., Charter Construction
• Blue Coble, 33, Ironworker, Local 75, Phoenix
• Tony Gerde, 53, Rodbuster, Ironworkers Local 86-Seattle, Carnation, Wash., Central Steel
• Maurice O'Connor, 53, Carpenter and Foreman, Local 279, Hawthorne, N.Y., Component Assembly Systems
• Rex Symank, 66, Carpenter, Pyeongtaek, South Korea, Michael Baker International
• Dave Perkins, 59, Steamfitter, Local 601, Oak Creek, Wis.
• Wendy Overeem, 55, Union Boilermaker, Local 454, Tulluhoma, Tenn.
• Vince Gurneau, 51, Irownworker, Local 5, Alexandria, Va.
• Shariel Sanchez, 51, Waterproofer, Dallas, Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing
• Wayne Williams, 46, Plumber and Pipefitter, Local 525, Las Vegas, MMC Contractors
• Terry Jacobsen, 77, Senior Technician, Pocatello, Id., Idaho Transportation Dept.