Sister Story: Rebecca Sturtevant

April 21, 2023

  1. Name– Rebecca Sturtevant
  1. Local and Location– Local Union #63 Springfield, MA
  1. Years in the construction industry– 25 years, 5th year sheet metal apprentice
  1. What unique strengths do you bring to your trade?– Grit
  1. What do you love to do when you are not at work? Going to the movies and beach with my family. I also enjoy working with local scouts and working in my garden.
  1. Goals in the future–any ambitions or changes to your career, growth or education? I have just made a career change to be a copper smith
  1. What’s the coolest job you’ve worked on? I think every job is cool. Each new job gives you the opportunity to learn new things. Even if you have many years of experience, you can always find ways to grow and get better
  1. What traits do you think a good sheet metal worker has? Craftsmanship, loyalty, and family values
  1. Why sheet metal? I love taking flat metal and forming it into something amazing
  1. Tool you can’t live without? Toolbelt and kneepads
  1. Best advice for an apprentice? Never give up. Don’t put yourself down. You can do anything!
  1. What do you think about Women Build Nations? Women Build Nations is the best conference I have been to. I can’t wait for it to come to Boston. I am excited for the younger women to get the opportunity to experience it as well
  1. Are you active in trade related activities such as career fairs, volunteer work, or SMART Army events? SMART Army is amazing because we have the opportunity to help lives in the community. I also enjoy volunteering at career fairs or other events with my Local Union
  1. What is the most valuable lesson learned as an apprentice? Don’t judge others because you don’t know what is going on in their lives.