AIM Magazine 2016 | Page 28

setting up a new robotics system in a factory .
Multi-Craft Contractors offers a wide range of careers , allowing employees to attain job satisfaction and earn a good living . Multi-Craft is one of Springdale ’ s largest and most successful companies . With eight different areas of specialized construction and industrial services , you can find the path that fits your skills and interests .
“ It ’ s about opportunities ,” said Multi-Craft President Rick Barrows . “ We believe allowing our employees to move to the division they are most interested in makes them happier in their work and creates more opportunities for career advancement ,” he explained .
The company ’ s different teams specialize in electrical , HVAC , plumbing , robotics , sheet metal , fabrication , crane and millwright services .
Multi-Craft Contractors helps employees build their career from the start with on-the-job training . For example , employees in the electrical and mechanical divisions start at $ 12 an hour as apprentices while earning their journeyman license , a four-year process that involves taking evening classes . For each semester a worker completes , they get a dollar an hour raise . After receiving their journeyman license , workers earn $ 22 an hour . Multi- Craft also offers tuition reimbursement for employees who pass their classes each semester . While most jobs at Multi-Craft do not require a college education , the company is also seeking electrical and mechanical engineers , estimators , and project managers with college degrees .
Developing certain skills in high school can help you in a future career at Multi-Craft . Jonathan Shaddox , the electrical division manager , recommended studying algebra and geometry . “ We use math in our work every day . If you are good at math , you don ’ t have to go to college in order to find a job that lets you use those skills ,” he said .
Marshall Rucker , a mechanical engineer , started at Multi-Craft as an information technology intern . After graduation , Rucker began working in the company ’ s sheet metal division , which makes ductwork for buildings .
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“ Each division works together as a team on many of our projects so you have the opportunity to find out which one best suits your skills ,” Rucker said . Multi-Craft ’ s projects include installing jumbotrons at the University of Arkansas , working on the new Arkansas Children ’ s Hospital , or