Please join us in congratulating Maddie King on being awarded “Apprentice of the Year” by the District Council 6. She was recognized at a dinner in June 2024 hosted by the District Council 6. The evening not only honored award winners but also celebrated recent apprentice program graduates.
Check out our interview with Maddie and learn why she’s loving her work in the skilled trades and at Lakeside!
How did you get nominated for “Apprentice of the Year?”
MK: From the first days of my apprenticeship, I was excited to learn in the classroom and on the jobsite. Every year, my instructor has the opportunity to nominate one person from his class who has a positive attitude and is enthusiastic about the trades. When he told me he was submitting my name for “Apprentice of the Year,” I was honored. He reached out to my Lakeside project manager as well as other contractors about my “on-the-job” work ethic, dedication, and attendance to finalize my nomination.
Why were you interested in the skilled trades?
MK: I truly “fell into” my work in the trades and at Lakeside. After enrolling in college for the 2018-19 year, I quickly realized the traditional, four-year academic path wasn’t for me. At the same time, I didn’t know what to do next. So, my dad suggested I work at Lakeside during the summer to earn and save money.
It took me less than two months to realize I loved working in the painting and finishing trade! At the end of August 2019, I joined the Painting & Tapers Local 7 Union and jumped in with both feet, attending union meetings and being available whenever Lakeside needed me to help with a project.
What Do You Like Best About Your Job?
MK: One thing I love is that no two days are the same. Working in painting and wall coverings allows me the opportunity to learn something different every day. I also get to work with a variety of products and try new techniques. With so many different opportunities in the field – from epoxy to hand-painted murals – I know there is still so much to learn.
I’m super grateful to have found a rewarding career that doesn’t require a traditional college degree. Lakeside is an incredible company to work for. They are supportive and understanding whenever I’ve had a family issue.
Are There Any Challenges You’ve Encountered?
MK: As a woman in the trades, I have faced some challenges. While Lakeside provides the most up-to-date and best safety equipment in the industry, the hard hat I was given didn’t fit well because of my long hair. So I made the tough decision to cut off a lot of it.
I have also heard some jokes and jabs, but my Lakeside coworkers always step up and defend me. I’m fortunate to work with a team who respects me and the work I do. I’ve also learned the importance of communication, coordination, and compromise when working with other trades so we can complete projects on time.
One petty issue, but it can still be a challenge, is that my car is always dirty from working in the field.
What Advice Do You Have For Anyone Considering the Skilled Trades?
MK: If you’ve ever tried college and it wasn’t for you, I strongly encourage you to try the trades. Even if you didn’t like high school, the trades are totally different from school.
Once you enter the trades, it is important to show up and be available. What I mean by that is show up to work and show up to union meetings so you are always in the know. Also, be available! Be available when there is extra work to be done or when you think you can contribute.
After I had the issue with my hard hat and safety equipment, I became passionate about wanting to empower women as they pursue skilled trades careers. I was invited to attend the Tradeswomen Build Nations event in Washington, D.C., and met with others to address critical issues for women in the trades. I am excited to see changes – not only for women but for everyone as safety is a driving force in our industry.
Lakeside is incredibly proud of Maddie and excited to have her as a Lakeside team member. We look forward to seeing her grow in her field and contribute to the finishing trades construction industry.
Learn more about the rewarding opportunities at Lakeside and in the trades here. We provide skilled trades jobs in Northwest Ohio, where you can make money while attending apprentice school.