Milwaukee Tools Apprentice of The Month - Reid Jackson
Being a member of a Union has a lot of moving parts. You must make sure your work continues a level of professionalism commensurate with our training, you have to make sure your brothers and sisters are protected and understand their rights, and, maybe most importantly, you must be a constant advocate for organized labor. This month’s apprentice of the month, second-year Reid Jackson, exemplifies the qualities of not just an outstanding apprentice but also a brother who spends his own time educating anyone who will listen about the benefits of a Union apprenticeship.
“For me, this career gave me the opportunity to not only continue down the path of education I’ve always loved, but also gave me the chance to provide for myself and my family in ways I didn’t previously know about,” says Reid.
Now working with the Conti Corporation, Reid joined the apprenticeship after hearing about it from a friend who was becoming an apprentice. After years of working in the field of primatology, Reid decided to pivot into a trade career. Using his education, Reid is known for asking good questions and always having an inquisitive outlook in the classroom.
“Reid champions for the Union every chance he gets,” says Zac Goodman, second-year instructor. “He’s always the first one to help and he’s always willing to lend an ear and make himself useful. He is the definition of ‘above and beyond’.”
In addition to his stellar work in the field, Reid is an outspoken advocate for our program. Whether it’s speaking to people in his own life or even to people asking for career advice online, Reid is one of those that shows that being in a Union requires educating all potential recruits and representing us in the best ways possible.
“I’m glad I went to school, but it was always the only option I was ever given,” says Reid. “I wish someone had told me about this program earlier because it seems crazy to this day that I can do something with my life that is important to the world, is enjoyable for me to do, and has all the other fringe benefits of a career in a trade.”
When asked if he had advice for up-and-coming apprentices, Reid makes it clear that being inquisitive is the most important thing you can be.
“One of the things I always emphasize in my own career and something I would recommend for other apprentices is to never be afraid to ask questions or seek out answers to things you don’t understand,” says Reid. “Don’t give up. If you don’t know something, ask about it. That is what makes a good apprentice.”
For his hard work, Reid will receive a PACKOUT bag and hand tool from Milwaukee Tools and congratulations from all the staff at the Sacramento JATC.