Career Spotlight: Get to Know Jeff

a shop manager working for General Sheet Metal

I was looking at getting into construction. A friend knew someone in sheet metal. Nineteen years later, I’m still happy I chose it.

Jeff Rydquist

Sheet Metal & HVAC Industry Testimonial: Jeff, Project Executive

Hometown: Estacada, Oregon

I Live with: My girlfriend Liz and my two kids.

Education: Five year apprenticeship Journeyman certificate, Associates Sheet Metal Technology

Years in the industry: Nineteen, all at the same company! I started working here at age 22 as a pre-apprentice and shortly after started into the apprenticeship and continued from there.

My main responsibilities are: To quote work for the mechanical fabrication shop and ensure it is operating efficiently.

# of promotions since I started: Four: Apprentice, Journeyman, Foreman, Shop Manager

My job is: Very rewarding!

My first ever job was: Mowing lawns and yard work.

My favorite subject in high school was: Geology.

To be good at my job you need to: Be disciplined, organized, honest, personally accountable.

My favorite part of my job is: Helping employees grow and succeed in the company

My least favorite part is: Meetings.

How I got my start in the industry: I was looking at getting into one of the construction trades. A friend knew someone in the sheet metal trade so I checked into it.

My advice to someone considering coming into this industry is: It is a great career with many opportunities, don’t pass it up!

My favorite project was: The first project I started on here for a local high tech company fabricating plenums.

Proudest work accomplishment: Providing the best sheet metal fabrication around!

Interested in Becoming a Shop Manager?

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