I've been in the heavy civil construction industry for 20 years, and I love it dearly!
I've held such roles as grade checker, roller operator, take-off co-op, estimator, project manager, and now own my own construction company.
I first fell in love with this industry when I was 6 years old. My parents were building a house, and the builder let me ride with him on the skid steer. I was hooked on dirt work ever since.
By far, the best thing about the Dirt World is its people. It's really the only industry in which you can have a 40+ year veteran that barely has a high school education, and that person can easily be the sharpest, most intelligent person on the job.
I have been fortunate enough to work with some of these 40-year veterans of the industry. They are humble and proud of what they've built. And eager to teach others what they know if you're willing to be patient and listen.
I have 4 little kids, and I can only hope that one day they will follow in my footsteps and build a life for themselves working in the Dirt World!