Apprentice Profile: Moises Espinoza
| Third-year Ironworker Local 75 Apprentice Moises Espinoza is not intimidated by a challenge. Whether it’s on the job or at the Local 75 apprentice competition, Espinoza has learned that he has what it takes to withstand the mental and physical stress that comes with being a highly skilled ironworker. “I wanted to do something challenging and build things that will last for years to come and that I can look back and know that I helped build,” Espinoza said when asked why he decided to apply for the apprentice program. “I like the hands-on experience. We get out in the field and practice what we learn in our books.” He’s learned that being an ironworker means “dealing with the coldest and hottest weather, and working the longest and craziest hours that before I didn’t think were humanly possible.” Espinoza says that being an ironworker on the Phoenix Sky Harbor Sky Train Bridge was one of the more challenging jobs he’s been on. “Once the cables are stressed, we have to pump grout in the voids they run through,” he said. “It has to be done at night here in the middle of a Phoenix summer, and once you start doing it you can’t stop.” He’s proud to be a member of Local 75. “You’re part of something greater than you, a big family,“ he said. “There’s always differences but you know that ultimately your brothers and sisters will always have your back.” In March, Espinoza demonstrated how much he’s learned by achieving first place in Local 75’s Apprentice Competition. He plans to continue his education beyond the apprenticeship program, and travel to gain experience and improve his skills. “Once I gain enough experience being a journeyman ironworker I would like to apply it to start my own business and be my own boss; never forgetting where I started from and what my union has helped me to achieve,” Espinoza said. |