Milwaukee Tools Apprentice of The Month - Ray Rodarte

One thing every organized member of a Union hopes for is not just an apprentice who comes in and learns the trade from a journeyman but also one who is engaged with the membership and wants to be part of the conversation and volunteerism that comes with being organized. This month’s apprentice of the month, Ray Rodarte, a fifth year, is a shining example of someone who not only exemplifies these traits but is also a beacon guiding future apprentices into being involved with the Union as well. 

“This apprenticeship means everything to me,” says Ray, who just completed one of the most important tests of the apprenticeship, his California state licensing exam. “It has provided a great opportunity for my daughter and gives my whole family hope for a brighter future. I’ll be the first in my family to finish a college degree, it’s a big accomplishment.”

Ray has been a steady presence within the walls of the Union as well as on the jobsite. A constant attendee and Recording Secretary of LU340’s RENEW (Reach out and Engage the Next generation of Electrical Workers) group, he has been a consistent volunteer anytime they have an event.

“Ray was real quiet and just observed RENEW for a while,” says Eddie Wiggington, Ray’s coworker and also someone pivotal in sparking his interest in this career. “Now I get to see him opening up and he definitely has the love for volunteering and for being a brother.”

In addition to his coworkers’ remarks from the field and from the Union, Ray has the support and respect of his teachers at the JATC.

“Ray has been an amazing presence within the RENEW group,” says Zac Goodman, second year instructor. “Ray is the first one to step up in any volunteer situation. He’s a great electrician, a great teammate, and a great person.”

“Always have a great attitude and be very coachable,” says Ray when asked if there is any advice he would give to up-and-coming apprentices. “Don’t be too shy to speak up about unsafe things. One bad mistake can have heavy consequences, so it’s very important you understand when you feel safe and when you don’t.”

For his hard work, Ray will receive a PACKOUT bag and hand tool from Milwaukee Tools and congratulations from the JATC and its staff.