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Itzel Prieto
Itzel Prieto
00:47

Itzel Prieto

Northern California Millwrights Local 102

Pleasanton, CA USA

"No matter what it is that you go into, make sure it makes you happy."

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Itzel's work combines: Engineering, Technology, and Building Things

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Day In The Life

Millwright Apprentice

I train as a millwright apprentice, learning diverse skills from welding to rigging.

02:49

Day In The Life Of A Millwright Apprentice

My Day to Day

Work starts as early as 6 a.m. and can go as late as 6 p.m. Every day is different depending on the job site, project, or task that my foreman might want me to do. My work can include anything from rigging, welding, machine operating, or fire watching.

Skills & Education

Here's the path I took:

  • High School

Life & Career Milestones

My path in life has been direct

  • 1.

    I discovered the trades during the COVID-19 pandemic, and was drawn to the stability and essential skills the industry had to offer.

  • 2.

    I was on a college path with acceptance letters in hand, but TikTok introduced me to the idea of learning a trade.

  • 3.

    After high school, I enrolled in an online program that taught me about unions and various trades, leading me to the millwright profession.

  • 4.

    My mentor, a carpenter, guided me through the process of seeking sponsorship, which led to my entry into the millwright trade.

  • 5.

    I initially struggled with welding in my apprenticeship, but persistence and the thrill of improvement made me love the craft.

  • 6.

    I've had the privilege of working with many different trades—riggers, ironworkers, electricians—each teaching me something new.

  • 7.

    In addition to my work, I’m pursuing further education in substance and alcohol abuse counseling.