Central Region Director Update – April 2023

Brothers and Sisters in the Central Region,

First, I would like to thank you all for doing the quality job that you do. Work throughout the Central Region have been plentiful for our members and contractors alike.

Millwrights are in high demand across the SSMRC 11-state footprint, recruitment is a high priority, and we need members to accommodate all upcoming projects. Bottom-up organizing is an excellent way of recruiting within our organization. If you know any mechanically inclined people who want a lifelong career, organize them. Put the individual in touch with your local business representative, and let’s get them working. With all the future working opportunities heading our way now is an excellent time to grow our organization through recruitment and market share. 

I would like to share the key steps you can take to being a successful professional millwright while achieving your goals within this rewarding and challenging industry.

Build experience: As with any trade, experience is crucial to becoming a successful millwright. Be versatile and seek out opportunities to work on different projects and in different industries to gain a broad range of experience.

Develop a strong work ethic: Being a successful millwright requires dedication, hard work, and attention to detail. Show up on time and be reliable. Always take the time to put in the extra effort to get the job completed right the first time and on time while being Safe, Professional, and Productive!

Keep up with industry trends and technology: The millwright trade is constantly evolving, so stay up to date with the latest industry technologies by Attending training classes to upgrade and enhance your skillsets. Seek out good opportunities to learn from other professional Millwrights.

Maintain a positive attitude: A positive attitude can go a long way in building a successful career as a millwright. Stay motivated, be open to feedback, and maintain a professional demeanor on the job. Good communication and having a good positive attitude are key!

Network and build relationships: Building relationships with other professionals in the millwright trade can help you learn about new job opportunities, gain referrals, and expand your professional network. Having a good reliable working partner and or mentor is very beneficial within our trade.

Staying motivated:  set goals, identify people or things that inspire you, and use them as a source of motivation. Associate with positive people who support and encourage you. Avoid negative people and influences. And seek out opportunities to be around people who motivate and inspire you.

Learn from failures:  View failures as opportunities for growth and learning. Use setbacks as opportunities to reassess your approach and adjust your strategy accordingly. Remember, FAIL means the first attempt in learning!

Continuously strive to improve:  Always look for ways and opportunities to learn and improve yourself. Seek out new knowledge, skills, and experiences that will help you achieve your goals.

Build a supportive network:  surround yourself with supportive individuals who inspire, challenge, and encourage you to reach your full potential.

Be a leader. Set an example, inspire, and motivate others to be successful. Do what’s right when others are not looking.

If you are looking for work, don’t hesitate to contact your business agent and put yourself on the out-of-work list if you are available. If you are traveling outside of your home local jurisdiction for work, check in with the local that has jurisdiction where you are procuring work.

In Solidarity, 

Jeffery B. Smith