Meet Mariah Chase, 4A Sprinkler Apprentice
What initiated your interest in the trades?
As a child, I loved working with my hands and creating things. I never thought plumbing would have been something I’d be doing for a living, but when I was presented with a job opportunity, I tried it and loved it. I’ve never looked back since then.
What has been your biggest challenge and best experience?
My biggest challenge would have to be proving myself. Being female in construction I feel like the odds are already stacked up against us and we’re viewed differently. So, proving the naysayers wrong is my best experience along with the skills and knowledge I’ve learned.
How has your experience been working for MJ Daly?
Great! I get the opportunity to work across the state of Connecticut with well-experienced Journey-people who are eager to teach their craft if you are willing to learn. MJ Daly’s wide range of offerings provides truly diverse work which I like.
Meet Rose Veilleux, Pipefitter, Apprentice
What initiated your interest in the trades?
I chose to go to Norwich Technical High School instead of my town’s public high school. In this type of school, you go through an exploratory experience and learn about all the trades offered. Out of the 12, I chose HVAC/R.
What has been your biggest challenge and best experience?
My biggest challenge has been learning a new trade as a first-year apprentice. I had switched from HVAC/R in high school to plumbing and heating as an apprentice. My best experience has been everyone’s willingness to teach me and help me succeed.
How has your experience been working for MJ Daly?
MJ Daly has given me the best apprentice opportunity possible. I have worked with a great group of people throughout my time here and have had a terrific experience.
Meet Christy Soto, 4A Sprinkler Apprentice
What initiated your interest in the trades?
I went to a technical high school and we were brought to work on different job sites. It was amazing to be hands-on, working, and learning all at once. I feel like that’s what really persuaded me to continue, and I’m happy that I did.
What has been your biggest challenge and best experience?
My biggest challenge was proving myself. Starting off, I knew it would be hard because I am a woman, but I knew I had to persevere. My best experience was when my foreman gave me instructions on what to do for a project and, with reassurance, provided me the opportunity to show him, myself, and others what I can do.
How has your experience been working for MJ Daly?
My experience working for MJ Daly has been awesome. I know I can count on them, just as much as they can count on me. They make me feel a part of their team.
Meet Ivette Ulloa, Journeyperson, Pipefitter
What initiated your interest in the trades?
I started doing HVAC work when I was in the Air Force. I really enjoyed it and investigated unions on the civilian side.
What has been your biggest challenge and best experience?
Working on a new high rise building my first year in construction was fascinating yet challenging. There are many pieces to the puzzle.
How has your experience been working for MJ Daly?
This will be my 5th year with MJ Daly, and I’m happy and proud to be part of the team.
