SMART Local 18 (Milwaukee, Wis.) fourth-year apprentice Nicole Severson always knew she wanted to be part of a trade. Her father was a diesel mechanic, her brother a sheet metal worker, and her uncles worked as an elevator operator and a heavy equipment operator, respectively. Now, she’s making her family and her union proud as an environmental service technician. Read more in her Sister Story:
What unique strengths do you bring to your trade?
Something unique I bring to the trade is my office and customer service background.
What do you love to do when you are not at work?
When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my friends, family and dog. We enjoy hiking and camping. I also enjoy cooking and listening to music.
Goals in the future — any ambitions or changes to your career, growth or education?
My goal in the future is to learn all the different aspects of this trade to become a well-rounded technician.
What surprised you about your trade?
What has surprised me in this trade is the unlimited possibilities and opportunities.
What do you find frustrating about your job/trade?
I find it frustrating that this trade is not openly offered to young women – which I feel is changing!
Tool you can’t live without?
I can’t live without my multi tool.
Best advice you got as an apprentice?
The best advice I received was to give it time and the knowledge will come; everyone starts out as an apprentice.
What do you think about Tradeswomen Build Nations?
Tradeswomen Build Nations is an awesome opportunity to meet and be around like-minded and strong women.
Are you active in trade-related activities such as career fairs, volunteer work or SMART Army events?
I am active in career fairs, speaking to high school students, and our local women’s committee.