Scott Boese
Sales engineer, Fluid Systems Components
Years with the company: 2
BizTimes: What is your educational background?
“I have an associate’s degree from UW-Fond du Lac plus an associate’s degree from WCTC in automation.”
What got you started in the construction industry?
“After working in sales and installation for Time Warner Cable, I wanted to further my technical knowledge, so I went back to school at WCTC for automation. I was drawn to FSC because I did my internship there and I liked the inclusive family culture.”
What roles have you held prior to the one you have now?
“I worked in sales and printing at 3D Parts Unlimited, a 3D part printing service bureau.”
Describe your current responsibilities.
“I am a sales engineer which includes selling hydraulic and pneumatic components to my customers. I also sell engineered systems designed by Fluid System Components mostly consisting of hydraulic power units. I assist at every level of the customer’s project to get them what they need to complete their project.”
What’s been surprising about your job?
“How many different types of products are being manufactured right here in Wisconsin.”
What’s been the most challenging part of your job?
“Learning what each of my customers do and figuring out how I can bring value to the table as a partner providing parts and engineering services to them.”
What advice would you have for someone considering entering the industry?
“If you are ready to jump in, get your hands dirty and learn whatever trade you are pursuing, then this is the industry for you.”
Dakota Cole
Project manager, Miron Construction | Age: 25 | Years with the company: 5
BizTimes: What is your educational background?
“I have a bachelor’s and master’s in civil engineering, construction management specialty, from Milwaukee School of Engineering.”
What got you started in the construction industry?
“My dad is a public works director and gave me the opportunity to see road construction projects at a young age. I have always been fascinated by how infrastructure is built and thought I wanted to be an engineer. Through experiences at MSOE and my internship with Miron, I found myself liking the construction management side of things more, where I can physically be involved
in the construction process beyond design.”
Describe your current responsibilities.
“I track project process including schedule and budget with input from the site superintendent and then share that information with the owner. I like to describe my role as making construction approachable and understandable for clients who have never been involved in a construction project before.”
What’s been the most challenging part of your job?
“In construction there is always something more to learn. There are intricacies in each project that we need to understand to succeed. Renovation versus new construction, occupied buildings versus unoccupied buildings, hospitals versus schools versus paper mills – every project truly is a unique challenge. We are also constantly evolving with new technology in the office and the field that adds another level of complexity to our day-to-day.”
What advice would you have for someone considering entering the industry?
“I encourage everyone who is interested in the construction industry to go for it. It can be intimidating to enter a male dominated field, especially at a young age, but everyone wants to help you succeed and you are never truly alone. As long as you are passionate about the work you do and willing to learn something new every day, the construction industry has endless opportunities.”
Alex Bojar
Journeyman welder, KHS USA Inc.
Age: 23 | Years with the company: 4
BizTimes: What is your educational background?
“I have a two-year associate’s degree in advanced welding and manufacturing, and I am currently back in school at (Waukesha County Technical College) for business management. Along with my degrees, I have five welding certifications for both MIG and TIG welding.”
What roles have you held prior to journeyman welder?
“I had a job at a sub shop and did some construction and remodeling during high school. At KHS, I started as an apprentice and completed the program to become a journeyman.”
Describe your responsibilities.
“My responsibilities include welding and fabricating KHS products. To do this, I have to be able to read blueprints, cut and shape metal, maintain welding equipment and communicate to the rest of the welding team. Sometimes I need to make design changes based on customers’ needs. This may include cutting apart and rebuilding or working with the engineers to redesign.”
What’s been the most challenging part of your job?
“During my apprenticeship, I was in school and still working full time. KHS was flexible and allowed me to take classes at my own pace. However, I wanted to finish my degree as fast as possible so some semesters I overloaded my schedule a bit too much. Time management would probably be the most challenging aspect.”
What advice would you have for someone considering entering the industry?
“I would say, just like any job, you have to make sure to do your research on the company you’re applying for. Ask questions about the culture and environment of the company during your interview. Ask how they handle projects that are being rushed. The environment around you can make a good day better and a bad day worse.”