Without people like Ken, America wouldn’t be functioning the way it does. Ken Glidden is based in Hooksett, NH. As a young welder coming from a family filled with Linemen, Ken is paving his legacy as a next-gen blue collar worker. Day to day, you’ll find Ken working as a Journeyman Pipefitter and Welder out of LU 131.
THE JOURNEY TO BECOMING A JOURNEYMAN
His work ethic and attention to detail shouldn’t come as a surprise, considering he was raised by generational blue collar workers. Ken spent his childhood working on the fields at Ben Moody Farm, and then took vocational classes in high school.
When he jumped into his career, Ken began as a Tuber Welder in Biofuel plants and paper mills. He developed his skills in a range of situations such as large-scale shutdowns or solo emergency repairs.
“Building North America, keeping the lights on, and furthering our infrastructure is a worthy cause from my point of view. Welding pipe specifically has shown me there is always room for improvement no matter the craft. Competitiveness and perfectionism keep me going day-in and day-out.”
TOOL BELT GENERATION TRADESMEN
The term “Tool Belt Generation” has become a common phrase this year, describing the massive amount of GenZ and Millennials taking on trade jobs rather than a traditional four-year degree career.
Even though Ken has pursued his passion of welding since high school - pushing his way into the trades as a young Welder hasn’t always been easy.
“As a young Welder coming up, I've constantly battled with the older generation downplaying my worth and skill. With the pressures of passing that X-Ray or Bend test, I've always had a problem dealing with my own failures and shortcomings. Not to mention the thought of becoming a cog in the wheel of an unforgiving system that beats you down.”
THE DAY TO DAY OF A PIPEFITTER AND WELDER
When asked, Ken gave us some insight into what his job looks like as a Journeyman Pipefitter and Welder.
“I specialize in layout, fabrication, and installation of piping systems across the North East. I’m currently working for Granite Mechanical out of a rig truck all down the NH seacoast and Massachusetts.”
Ken also mentioned that he’s worn Thorogood boots for the last three years on the job, and recommends the Thorogood 8” Round Toe work boot.
“I wear Thorogood not only because they're finalized on American soil, but because they have always been up to the task. From the boilers to the tank farms, water treatment plants to pharmaceutical buildings, these 8" round toes have seen them all.”
ADVICE FOR OTHER YOUNG ASPIRING TRADESMEN?
Ken shared some great advice for the next generation looking to enter the trades or remain there for the long haul.
“My advice to all coming into trades and those already there is first and foremost to be patient. There will always be clashing personalities and enemies you make along the way. Never forget people come from different backgrounds and have different perspectives. Learn from those that have been doing it, be a sponge and soak up all the things you see and do. Take the little things that work for you as you gain experience and compile them to make you a better and more complete human being. Most importantly, be passionate about your work but don't allow yourself to be consumed by it.”
