The vast and intricate U.S. power grid is made up of 7,300 power plants, nearly 160,000 miles of high-voltage power lines, and millions of miles of low-voltage power lines and distribution transformers, connecting 145 million customers throughout the country, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). This expansive network requires constant maintenance to run smoothly, a responsibility that falls on the shoulders of some of the most important yet often overlooked professionals in the energy sector: Electrical Lineworkers.
Spring is a season of new beginnings and growth. Flowers blooming, buds bursting into vibrant greens, birds singing, and longer, lighter days remind us that, no matter how dark and dreary some seasons may be, spring always comes bringing a fresh start and new growth.
In the world of construction, the demand for skilled tradespeople has never been higher.
In the vibrant world of building trades, the fabric of our workforce is as varied as the projects we undertake. From towering skyscrapers down to the homes we cherish, each project tells a story of collaboration and unity. While the building trades were once seen as an exclusive and homogenous field, those days are, thankfully, further and further behind us.
You’ve likely heard someone say something like, “There’s a lot of opportunity in the building trades right now” (there is, by the way!) or, “She works in the building trades.” If you’ve scratched your head wondering what exactly the building trades are, if and how building trades jobs are different from “construction jobs,” or if the trades and the building trades mean the same thing, you’re certainly not alone!
In life, there’s no shortcut to success. Success comes from rolling up your sleeves and putting in the work. But here’s the good news: apprenticeships pave the way, putting you on the right track so you get there sooner. Apprenticeships offer a clear and straight path to a rewarding and successful career.
When it comes to planning our future careers, it's essential to choose paths that not only align with our interests and offer stability, but also promise growth. But in a world that’s constantly changing, it can feel difficult to pinpoint what the “good” options are.
With careers that provide exciting projects, meaningful work, fantastic benefits, great pay, limitless opportunities for growth, and an enviable work-life balance, it’s no wonder that construction tradespeople hear “wow, you’re so lucky!” quite often.
For many people and in many professions, success often does come down to luck - who you know, who you meet, being in the right place at the right time, etc. - but a successful career in the trades has nothing to do with luck.
Our health is indeed our greatest asset, and if COVID-19 has taught us anything, it’s that good health isn’t guaranteed for any of us. It’s no surprise then, in a time when we’ve all been worried about what happens if the worst does happen, that quality health and wellness benefits have never been so valued.
Before the pandemic began, many people - especially the young and healthy - saw benefits differently. They often valued time and flexibility above the more traditional, tangible benefits like health insurance or retirement income, so it was no surprise that the gig economy really took off. Working your own hours and being your own boss sounds great! That is, until you realize you’re completely on your own when disaster strikes. No health insurance, no sick leave, no unemployment insurance, etc. What if you or someone in your family gets sick? What if you’re unable to work due to that illness? Not so fun after all.
But the tables are turning. When choosing a job or career path, we’re now seeing job seekers of all ages - even those in peak physical health - become more concerned with health and wellness benefits than ever before.
In the construction trades, the benefits are bountiful! Tradesmen and women have access to great health insurance, paid time off, sick leave, unemployment insurance, job security, and so much more! Not to mention the intangibles that contribute to mental health and happiness, such as high job satisfaction rates, financial security, and a sense of belonging and purpose. The trades are committed to protecting their members and helping them lead productive and healthy lives. This is yet another reason why more and more people are considering a career in the construction trades, and why you should, too!
Our health is something none of us should ever have to gamble with; don’t gamble with yours. Learn more about a rich and rewarding career in the trades, where you and your family will be well taken care of. Find out how to get started today!
For the men and women who work in construction, the most important goal is to go home safe at the end of each shift.
