October is Careers in Construction month. Over the next few weeks, we will highlight several team members to shed light on the different positions and the reasons why they entered the industry. First up, our Pipeline Division Director, Andy Cook. What was your first job in the construction industry? • I would go to work for my dad during the summer. I spent much of my time sweeping and shoveling dirt from the road that had been tracked out of the site. Eventually, I got to run a compactor. What led you to decide to enter the construction industry? • The enjoyment I get from seeing something “get built” and knowing that I was able to contribute to something that will benefit multiple people. What is your favorite thing about your current job? • The number of challenges. With the type of work we do, no two projects are the same, and each will have its own set of challenges that will require you to think through the building process each time. What advice would you give someone wanting to enter the construction industry? • Before you settle, try a couple of different types of construction, i.e., commercial, industrial, residential etc. and positions if you have the opportunity. Each type will have its own skill set and knowledge that is required. When you start, make sure to spend time in the field to LEARN what it takes for the work to happen. Everything looks good in the plans, but to succeed, you need to understand what it takes to make the plans a reality. What is your least favorite thing about your current job? • Finding qualified employees or the misconception that construction careers are low paying. Kids in middle/high school have pushed towards 4 year colleges so much that it has created a lack of individuals that are getting into the construction industry as tradesmen. #rubycollins #generalcontractors #rubycollinsgeneralcontractors #smyrna #georgia #careersincaonstruction #letsbuildsomethinggreat #utilitiescontractor
Great guy & great advice!!
Vice President at Better Pumps & Solutions, LLC
1yAndrew is one of the best out there. I had the pleasure of working with him years back. He is the type of guy that new comers to the construction industry can look to for advice and leadership. He learned like I did, from the shovel handle!