Where do I begin? 7 years ago I wasn’t proud of the direction my life was going. I felt like I didn’t have a true purpose or honed any marketable skills. Luckily my good friend Kevin Wozek mentioned a truck driver position for Urban Elevator and said it was a pretty sweet gig and they needed a guy! Knowing I had nothing to lose I left my job in the food industry without regret. Upon meeting the elevator field mechanics, drivers, and office staff I learned how great of a trade the elevator union is. In fact, it’s the best there is. I felt lucky to be a part of the team but knew I had to make a move up one way or another. During my time driving the truck and working in the warehouse I used all my pto/vacation time to travel to every elevator local in the country that had an opening to their apprenticeship program. I was on damn near 10 lists just waiting for that call, until one day Local 21 DFW called me with a job opportunity. I couldn’t believe my life was about to change for the better in more ways than I could imagine. Working in Dallas for 3 years I had the opportunity to be mentored by alot of bright guys and made some lifelong friends. Eventually I knew I would have to come back to Chicago though to be with my loved ones and that’s what I did! I know this post is long but where I’m trying to get at is work hard for your dreams. Don’t take no for an answer, and do everything in your power to get where you want to be in life. It doesn’t always work out when you want it to, but know it will when your time comes. Thank you to everyone who has supported me and stuck by my side when times were tough and to just see the bigger picture. And of course a special thanks to my woman Cara Smith you made studying for this exam fun to say the least! 😅
The 2024 Arnold Classic was a blast yet again. I’ve lost track of how many I’ve been to over the years starting back in 2011, but I could honestly say every one has been an adventure to say the least. I met a lot of cool people and spent time with good friends. Also had the opportunity to chat with old/current legends in the sport of bodybuilding. If you’ve never been to the Arnold Expo and thought about it, just pull the trigger! “I’ll be back!” 💪
Come on out to the Plainfield Central High School craft show. My lady Cara Smith makes awesome custom wreaths for all seasons/holidays! We will be here at booth C-7 in the field house until 4pm today and 9am-3pm tomorrow.
