Apprentice of the Month - Richard “Rick” MacLachlan

There is nothing more a journeyman can ask of their apprentice than that they learn everything they possibly can during their time in the apprenticeship. To show up early to work every day, to mentally prepare for the day’s job, to understand the value of asking questions, and to engage in the process of learning new and sometimes difficult skills; all these things are an apprentice’s responsibility and no one else. No one exemplifies this more than third-year Richard “Rick” MacLachlan, July’s Apprentice of the Month.

“This apprenticeship means everything to me,” says Rick. “It’s a pathway to a better life, to my future. It’s my number one priority.”

When asked what his approach is to his work, Rick makes it clear learning is his biggest objective. His work on the jobsite is not just to be an apprentice who rises above but also a chance to learn his craft in a way that sets him up for success as a journeyman.

“Every day I try to come in with the right mindset that I need to get in work mode,” says Rick. “Every day is a learning experience for whatever I’m doing. I ask myself, ‘what skills can I improve upon? What theories, concepts, methods, what can I learn from the people around me?’ Every day I want to learn something new.”

“Rick has the patience of a seasoned veteran in the field,” says instructor Zac Goodman. “He has an incredible can-do attitude and that attitude leads to no problem being too large or daunting.”

When asked what he would say to newer apprentices, Rick is clear on his own strategies: take advantage of every day you can no matter what.

“Every day see what you can learn to help improve your future,” he says. “Even if you’re having a bad day, keep coming in and keep learning. Every day is an opportunity, and every day is a blessing.”

For his hard work, Rick will receive a tool bag and hand tool from Milwaukee Tools and congratulations from the JATC and its staff.