Local 20 (Indianapolis, Ind.) sheet metal sister Tori Cooper was welding nonunion when her boss left to join SMART — he recruited her to come with him, and the rest is history. Today, as she works to journey out, Cooper continues to enjoy specialty welding work and getting involved with her local women’s committee. Learn more in her sister story:
What unique strengths do you bring to the sheet metal trade?
Specialty work is definitely not common for my union, but I love doing it and being under my hood every day!
What do you love to do when you are not at work?
I love spending time with my kids and husband. (Very generic but it’s true.) I love my little family.
Goals in the future — any ambitions or changes to your career, growth or education?
I would love to become a journeyperson once I finish my classes, join the International Women’s Committee and be a peer for any woman coming into the trades.
What surprised you about your trade?
All the different aspects there are and the different jobs you can have in one field.
What do you find frustrating about your job/trade?
Being a woman, the most frustrating thing is always having to prove my place.
What’s the coolest job you’ve worked on?
I loved doing things for Eli Lilly projects. Anything food grade that has to be perfect/polished out, I love to do.
What traits do you think a good sheet metal worker has?
Never think you’re too good to do something and always be up for learning new things. There is ALWAYS something new to learn, no matter how many years of experience you have.
Why sheet metal?
Honestly, it fell into my lap. I was working at a warehouse job welding sports equipment. My boss left to join the union and recruited me in with him.
Tool you can’t live without?
Welpers. There are so many tricks and ways that they can be helpful on the job.
Best advice you got as an apprentice?
Practice, practice, practice!
Best advice for an apprentice?
Practice, practice, practice, and always be up for trying new things.
What do you think about Tradeswomen Build Nations?
I love being around women from all sorts of trades! In just one weekend, I learn so much about how other unions work and all the different avenues you can take.
Are you active in trade related activities such as career fairs, volunteer work or SMART Army events? Can you elaborate on one you participated in?
I currently go to our local women’s committee meetings and have tried to do career fairs.