Name: Jamey G.
Company: CAP-STONE & Associates, Inc
Title/Position: Operating Engineer
Years working in construction: 33
What was your path to a career in construction? Growing up as a farm girl I spent majority of my childhood outdoors. My Dad is an ibew member which also influenced my decision to become a union member. A friend of mine who is also an operator helped guide me to become an operating engineer. I spent 4 years at the OOE training site in Logan Oh. Best experience of my life, made many friends during that time. During this time I also had my daughter who is now 30. After graduating from the apprentice program I stayed with Columbus Asphalt for 30 years. I can operate many machines but spend most of my time on a skid steer and asphalt roller.
What do you like most about working in construction? The small company I work for is a family owned and oriented company, I have enjoyed working for them over the years. Over the course of my years there I have learned so much, I am now the ‘old’ person there. Some call me a pioneer, however I enjoy my job!
This year’s theme is “Keys to the Future.” What is the key to the future of construction in Ohio? The key to construction is training. We cannot gain good quality work without training and experience. Ohio is a booming state with much needed construction workers with good training and skill.
If you were to give young women (high schoolers) advice about beginning a career in construction? In this field you need a strong work ethic, for as long as I have I hate to miss work. Many may see these types of jobs as a strong paycheck, as this is true it comes with a ton of hard working labor that some may not be prepared for every day. There’s pride and goals everyone wants to meet at the end of the day/each job. You need to wear good boots, it may be a strange thing to say but you are in them 8-16 hours a day. Don’t be out there glamming. You’re there to work, some days are easier than others. It’s hot in the summer and cold in the winter unless you have heat. Have fun enjoy your day but also you have to be alert. Very alert.. look at your surroundings, look for a place that’s safe in case something happens, no matter the type of job site and your comfort level. Don’t let the men treat you bad. I’ve ran into a few men during my time that didn’t think I could do my job or that I should even be out there but I can perform my work better than most men. Construction is a tough job you got to lace your boots up and do your job.
