I started with the Operating Engineers in 1987 in the apprenticeship. I worked in the field doing dirt work and some crane work until 1999. In 1999 I got hired as the dispatcher at Local 302 and in 2000 started at the training program as Apprenticeship Coordinator. I work with the apprentices helping to find work, answer questions, help with any problems regarding their training that may come up during the course of their apprenticeship. I do some of the recruiting and enjoy the opportunity to tell people about apprenticeship. I love working with the apprentices and am grateful for the support I get from the training program staff, the JATC, the Locals and the Agents.

I started working for the Training Center in March 2005 as the coordinator for journey level training. In September 2006, I became the Office Manager for the Training Center. I have a Bachelor's degree in Administrative Management and a Minor in Computer Applications from Central Washington University. Working for the training program and helping people complete training to better themselves has been very fulfilling and I hope to continue to assist members signing up for classes and for NCCCO crane certification.

I am a 1991 CWU Business/Finance/Bookkeeping graduate and have recently returned to the beautiful Kittitas Valley. After spending many years home with my two boys and then working part-time at their schools, I am actually happy to be managing finances again! My spare time is now busy with my new Quarter Horse mare, “Reigning Badger" and learning the sport of Reining and Reined Cow Horse.

I started at the Training Center in 2007 and assist the office with various tasks. I am here to assist with questions regarding the Apprenticeship Program, the application process, and Journey Level Training.

I wanted a career I would enjoy and provide a good lifestyle for me and my family. So, I started in the Operating Engineers Apprenticeship Program in 1978. I worked for companies including Bechtel, Kiewit, Snelson/Anvil, Tri-State, and then I ended up at Ness Crane. I started with the Training Program in December 2007. I enjoy working at the Training Center because of the opportunity to share my knowledge and experience by providing qualified and competent employees for the workforce. My goal is to see the Training Program grow, flourish, and remain a valuable provider of educated and qualified operators far into the future of the construction industry.

I became an operator because I enjoy working outdoors and I found that all my previous jobs were not challenging or fulfilling. I started in the Apprenticeship Program in 1996 and worked for Ceccanti, Washington Group, and Segale. I started working at the Training Center in spring 2005. I love being a grade instructor because it is gratifying knowing that I am helping others to do what is considered one of the most important aspects of dirt work. My goal is to continue helping others and pass on my knowledge to improve the skill levels of my students. Learning grade checking is absolutely critical to holding a job as an equipment operator and I encourage members to challenge themselves by taking my grade class.

I grew up on a farm running equipment so I knew early on that operating heavy equipment is what I wanted to do in life. I started in Local 302 in 1989 and have worked for many contractors such as Tri-State, Merlino, Cadman, and my last employer was Leingang in Yakima. I started at the Training Center in October 2006. I like working here because I get to see people improve their operating skills very quickly; it’s like going from 0 to 60. The training here is fast-paced and intense and that’s the part I enjoy. I also like all the people that come through here; it gives me the opportunity to pass on my skills and abilities. My goal is to improve the program and contribute my expertise.

From my first construction job in 1971, I was in awe of heavy equipment and big projects. I still am and my wife says I'm just a big kid at heart. I went through a variety of construction experiences working in the Northwest, Alaska, and American Samoa. Having accomplished most of my career goals, I hope to be able to help others reach theirs.

I started my heavy equipment mechanic trade in North Dakota.  I graduated from the Lake Region Junior College diesel program in Devils Lake, ND in 1979.  From there I worked for the county highway department, Terex heavy equipment dealership, and two different earthmoving contractors as a heavy equipment mechanic.  I moved out west to Washington in 1989 and started working for an open pit coal mine in Centralia, WA as a heavy equipment mechanic.  I was a mechanic there for 11 years and a maintenance planner for a year and dayshift shop foreman for 6 years.  I started working for the Operating Engineer’s Training Program in January 2007 as a Heavy Equipment Mechanic Apprentice Instructor. I have been MSHA certified 30CPR Part 77, Methane detection and Oxygen deficiency, First Aid, CPR and AED trained.  I have attended numerous factory training schools on various mining and construction equipment and the SAP maintenance module software and Modular Mining software. I can be reached by email or call me at 206-391-1137.