Introduction
You may not notice it, but every step you take on concrete or asphalt is possible because someone created it. That’s where Stephen and Christopher enter the picture!
Stephen and Christopher are based in Wisconsin. You can find them both working at Martell Construction!
THE CREATION OF CURBS
It’s rare to find someone who’s worked at a job for more than 5 years - but Christopher is here to prove that you can work in a career you love for three decades (and counting)! For over 30 years, Christopher has operated a curb machine for Martell Construction. The day after he graduated High School, he could be found on the jobsite - and he’s never left.
“I always wanted to be an operating Engineer Local 139. I started the day after I graduated high school for Martell Construction and haven’t left since.” - Chris
In the summer, Stephen can be found right alongside Chris! Stephen sets string lines for the curb machine. In the winter, he works as a laborer in the building trades. He’s been working for Martell Construction since 2010!
“During the summer season I am a laborer for Martell Construction and set stringline for a curb machine to follow as a guide and in the winter season I am a laborer in the building trades.” - Stephen
They both wear and use Thorogood boots when pouring curbs. Chris recommends Thorogood Men's 8" 1957 Moc Toe Waterproof work boots, and Stephen recommends Thorogood American Heritage – 8″ Trail Crazy Horse Safety Toe work boots.
“I do a lot of walking while at work and these boots are very comfortable and make it seem like I’m walking on clouds. Right out of the box I never have to worry about breaking them. I can throw them on and go right to work.” - Stephen
THE WHY BEHIND THE BLUE COLLAR
Blue collar work is not for the faint of heart, and both Chris and Stephen have worked from dawn till dusk in a demanding physical labor position for years.
“The reason I do what I do is to provide for my family and to make an honest living. My father who is now retired worked for Martell construction, and got me a job working for them right after I graduated high school in 2010” - Stephen
“I pour curb to provide for my family, and what keeps me going is my crew that I have worked with for multiple years.” - Chris
ADVICE FOR OTHER TRADESMEN WANTING A LONG CAREER?
If you want to have a long lasting career in the trades, Chris and Stephen are the people to turn to for advice. They’ve been with the same company for years, and still love what they do. When we asked for their advice, here’s what they said:
“Find a crew that makes you feel like you have never worked a day of your life.” - Chris
“By getting in the trades you can look forward to a good wage, good benefits, and good retirement. If I could go back in time I wouldn’t change my career choice at all.” - Stephen
