TEAMMATE SPOTLIGHT

Project Electrical Automation Technician, Nucor-Yamato Steel

Hometown: Blytheville

Age: 28

Years with Nucor: 9

BLUEPRINT: You were part of the Nucor internship program, is that correct?

TYLER AVERY: I was the very first electrical intern in the Nucor internship program between Nucor and Arkansas Northeastern College. I was kind of like a guinea pig. Now that internship program is one of the most successful programs with Nucor and ANC.

BP: Did you have any role models in the skilled careers growing up?

TA: I knew about skilled trades from the get-go. My dad is a welder and I’ve always worked with my hands with carpentry, working around the house, helping my dad. I ended up wanting to be an electrician.

BP: There are a lot of stereotypes about skilled careers. What’s the reality?

TA: As long as someone is willing to work, willing to challenge themselves, the opportunities at Nucor are endless.

CHRISTIAN WILLIAMS

Melt Shop Mechanic, Nucor Steel Arkansas

Hometown: Paragould

Age: 20

BLUEPRINT: What’s a typical day like?

CHRISTIAN WILLIAMS: On a typical day I check my emails, do my inspections, and walk around the mill and make sure everything is running well. I talk to my operators and then I’m on call for anything that goes wrong. I assist with mechanics, helping them with their projects.

BP: What’s your schedule?

CW: I work four-on/four-off rotating nights and days. I work 12-hour shifts and during that 12-hour shift I’ll be on call. If our boss needs us, we’ll go in and take care of what we need to do.

BP: What do you like about your job?

CW: It’s something different every day.

BP: What soft skills are most important?

CW: Being on time and communication skills are important, but safety is the number one factor.