Women Who Build West Michigan: Sandra Olmstead

The Construction Careers Council spoke with Sandra Olmstead, a general foreman and millwright with Pro Services and Millwrights Local 1102. Before entering the trades, Sandra was a waitress. Her mother, who had worked for years as a millwright, encouraged Sandra to look into the trades because it was a stable career for her. Sandra took that advice and entered a career where she could solve problems, work with her hands and provide a support her family.

Today, we honor Sandra as a woman who builds West Michigan and recognize the influence of her mother, who helped show her what was possible in the skilled trades.

What do you do in construction?

I am a general foreman and millwright for Pro Services. I work in the field, but I also help plan the work. I help schedule workers for jobs, talk with customers, manage job details and make sure safety training and credentials are in place.

Each week, I help with supporting many job sites and many workers. I also still work with my tools in the field when needed.

What is a millwright?

A millwright is a skilled tradesperson who works with large machines and mechanical systems. Millwrights install, repair, move and align equipment in a variety of industrial settings. They help keep airport conveyors running, maintain machines in factories, repair pumps and motors and install new equipment when older systems need to be replaced.

Millwrights may work on motors, pumps, gearboxes, conveyors, turbines and other equipment that help businesses and communities run.

What does a normal day look like?

A normal day can change based on the job site. Most days start with safety checks and project planning. I take time to review the job, talk about hazards, gather tools and make sure everyone understands the plan.

Other days may include troubleshooting equipment, moving large parts, setting machines in place, checking measurements and making sure every piece lines up the right way. The work can look different from day to day, which is part of what makes the trades interesting.

Why is this work important?

Millwright work keeps machines moving. When machines run safely and correctly, companies can make products, move materials and provide the power and services that people use every day.

It is hands-on work. It also takes planning, teamwork, math, problem-solving, and strong safety skills.

What skills help someone succeed as a millwright?

Many people think this work is only about strength. Strength can help, but modern job sites also use tools and equipment to complete the work. Millwrights may use hoists, forklifts, power tools and hydraulics to move heavy parts where they need to go.

Teamwork is a large part of the job. Workers rely on each other to make sure the work gets done safely. Millwrights also need to pay attention to details, follow directions, solve problems and work well as a team.

Good communication is also important. Workers need to ask questions, report safety concerns and explain what is happening on a job site. Being dependable and willing to learn can make a big difference.

How can someone become a millwright?

There is more than one path into this work. Some people apply to companies that hire maintenance or millwright workers and are trained on the job. Others enter apprenticeship programs. Some people also go through a union hall to complete an apprenticeship program.

An apprenticeship lets you learn while you earn a paycheck. You can build skills on the job while also getting training on the job site, in the lab and in the classroom. That training may include safety, rigging, confined space work and other skills needed for job sites.

Are millwright jobs union-only?

No, there are union and non-union paths. Some manufacturing companies have their own maintenance teams or training programs. Union apprenticeships are another path. The right choice depends on the person, the employer and the type of work they want to do.

What do you enjoy about your role?

I enjoy being the person who helps connect workers, contractors, customers and job sites. I like making sure people have what they need to do the work safely and complete high-quality work.

I also care about helping apprentices and new workers stay in the trades. I want people to know what their next step can be, especially women who may be thinking about a skilled trades career.

What should students know about construction careers?

Students should know that construction has many types of jobs. Some people work with tools. Some lead crews, others plan jobs, estimate costs, manage safety or train new workers.

A skilled trades career can also lead to many next steps. A person may start as an apprentice, become a journey worker, move into leadership or even become a trainer, business owner or project leader. If someone enjoys hands-on work, they can have a full and rewarding career as a skilled trades professional.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about skilled trades?

Look into apprenticeship programs. They are a great way to learn a trade while earning money. If you try a trade and decide it is not the right fit, you still leave with skills you can use in the future.

Do not be afraid to ask questions; talk to people who already work in the field and learn what the job is really like. Then find the path that fits your goals and your life.

How can employers and families support women in the trades?

Support can start with encouragement. Families, schools and employers can help by sharing career options early and showing that skilled trades are open to everyone.

Employers can also help by building respectful job sites, offering clear training and making sure all workers understand safety and workplace expectations. When people feel prepared and respected, they are more likely to stay and grow alongside the field.

Interested in learning more?

Anyone who is interested in learning more about becoming a millwright can contact the Northern Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters to learn about apprenticeship opportunities. You can also visit your nearest West Michigan Works! service center, using the link below, to learn more about apprenticeships, career paths and the variety of skilled trades opportunities available throughout West Michigan.