Growing up, construction was only about building homes.
As a kid, I would often find myself visiting job sites to watch 631 Scrapers at work. I was always fascinated by construction and heavy equipment.
Although I stand at 6 feet 10 inches tall (not your average height), my passion for sports, especially basketball, was just as strong.
Basketball eventually led me to my equipment operating career. As my time on the court began to wind down, I entered the industry as a laborer on an exciting airport project.
From there, I worked on road construction, helped with traffic control, and even had the opportunity to work in an iron mine. There, I operated massive equipment like the Komatsu WA 600.
Eventually, I found my home at JP Excavating. Starting over as a laborer, I operated haul trucks, laid pipe, and even helped stack a few rock walls.
Later, I joined the crushing crew, where I now run my 950 loader and assist with everyday tasks of loading and moving materials.
I love this industry because it's incredibly rewarding and shares the same excitement and fast pace that I experienced in basketball. The camaraderie and team effort in construction reminds me of my sports days.
To anyone looking to join the industry, I'd say: dive right in headfirst.
Don't be afraid to fail or to face criticism, as it's what makes you better in the long run.
