Milwaukee Tools Apprentice of The Month - Justin Hill

Becoming and working in the electrical field as a Union apprentice is no joke. It requires rigorous accountability, a god-tier ability to take notes and ask questions, and the fortitude to be corrected time and time again to better trade skills you will need for the rest of your career. It’s no surprise that not every apprentice also finds the time to get involved with the Union and with its constituent groups. This month’s recognized apprentice, Justin Hill, not only excels with his work in the field but also donates a significant amount of his time to the Electrical Worker’s Minority Caucus (EWMC) and government affairs groups within LU340.

“I always try to get people involved whenever I can,” says Justin, currently an officer within the EWMC. “I heard about it in class and I just showed up; that’s all it took. I figure the buck has to stop somewhere and I try to do whatever I can to make it stop with me. If not me, then who?” 

As treasurer of the EWMC, Justin has taken on a vital role for the group’s success, especially as they currently pursue non-profit status.

“He’s on point and very focused at his task at hand. Very reliable,” says Troy Takara, a journeyman and EWMC president. “We are fortunate Justin is filling some big shoes. He’s stepped up to the plate big time and he’s a real asset to the group.”

“I have had confidence in Justin since his first day in class,” says Will McKee, JATC instructor. “He always had relevant and pertinent questions about the subject matter in class and was always very positive about his professional outlook. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this accolade.”

Justin comes from a construction background and, now a second-year apprentice, brings with him a wealth of knowledge about the industry and about how to operate on the job site effectively.

“The term is foreshadowing,” says Justin when asked what he would preach to younger apprentices in the program. “You have to be paying attention and understanding the process. ‘Hey, my journeyman is going to need to tighten that half-inch bolt, let me make sure that tool is ready to go.’ Know your tools and what they’re for, that’s why we are in this apprenticeship.”

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