Meet the inspiring Adriana Lopez.
Looking to incorporate welding into her personal artwork, she fell in love with the trade after attending a program at Jane Addams Resource Corporation in Chicago. In no time, she got her Arc Welding Society Certification.
Adriana worked in several different shops and got involved with Chicago Women in Trades.
“They encouraged me to pursue the trades, even though I didn’t think I would make the cut because of my gender and size. They helped me study for the test, ended up scoring 15 on the long list of people who took the Ironworker test.
I’ll have 2 years in in April. I love being a Union Ironworker. It’s a brotherhood; we look out after each on the field and even outside the job. That’s my favorite part of being in a union, and the awesome benefits.
Am I ever scared during the job? No, but I am cautious because I always keep in mind that any mistake could not only impact myself, but also the guys working beside me.
I would suggest to anyone who’s trying to get in the trades to seek guidance through programs like the ones that helped me. It makes a huge difference. To not give up because it can be lengthy sometimes to get in. Believe in yourself because anything is possible with hard work and perseverance.” -Adriana Lopez
Crafted in Carhartt 