Michael Richardson loves to put people to work.

As the Equal Employment Officer for SSW, Michael works with the Modern Times, Inc. (MTI) Jobs Coordinator to help the Project reach the apprentice, local and disadvantaged worker hiring goals established by the Project Labor Agreement (PLA). He conducts outreach throughout the community, such as pre-apprenticeship programs, to help anyone interested learn more about potential employment opportunities.

The Project is on track to meet all of its employment goals, including the number of women that have been hired (an accomplishment that has recently been highlighted by several local news outlets). Michael also continues to support workers after they have been brought onto the Project, with programs such as the quarterly Tradeswomen Leadership Supportive Services Group meetings. SSW is offering more than jobs, Michael likes to say; they are offering careers.

Throughout his own career, Michael has seen many people start from an apprenticeship, grow their skill sets and take on more responsibilities. The most rewarding part of Michael's job is that he has the opportunity to see new hires grow over time. It's a journey that can have a tremendous impact on an individual, as well as that person's family and community.

Michael told us that he is looking forward to more concrete pours taking place, like the one described above. This will mean more openings for masons and pile drivers on the Project, but will also lead to the full design of the viaduct taking shape.

There's still plenty of work ahead. But that's just fine with Michael.