TEAIRRA MARSHALL: MY JOURNEY

I met Local 435 business manager Lance Fout after graduating from local welding school at a career day event. I was employed at a warehouse, but I wanted to learn a trade and get into construction. After a brief conversation with Lance, I was sold. It was something different and also something I never really knew much about, so I was willing to give it a try.

I did my training here in Jacksonville and am currently employed by Ferber Sheet Metal Works.

Most of my on-the-job training was in the field, which consists of some major hospitals, a couple of schools, and correctional facilities. I love working in the field, as I get to meet new people, work with different trades, and see how all of our skills coordinate in order to meet the same goals.

The most important lessons that I have learned from my apprenticeship, training, and work is safety. We practice safety not only in school, but also at work. Knowing good safety practices will prevent you and others from getting hurt and it can also save lives.

A career in sheet metal is advancing right along with the other trades. This trade is interesting and very different from others. Even though it’s the same concept over and over, you have to go about it different ways. I have noticed that this trade has also made me into a better and stronger person, mentally and physically. My self-reliance, interpersonal skills, and problem solving abilities have enhanced tremendously. A

career in sheet metal has so far been very rewarding, especially going through the apprenticeship, which is 100% free. I can live comfortably and take care of my family comfortably.

My future plans are to continue to retain as much information as I can and keep learning will into the future. Even though I’m done with the apprenticeship, that doesn’t mean the learning stops. I plan to grow within in the company.

When I was a fourth-year apprentice with Local 435, I was asked to visit the trade school where I graduated from before applying to the Local, and I jumped at the chance. During the visit it felt good to share the knowledge and truth about our union, as I was sitting in that same chair four years ago without a concrete plan. I’m proud to be a part of Local 435. It’s like family. If I need help or encouragement on or off the clock, my brothers and sisters are always there. ▪