Jaidyn Schutz
Operating engineers local 49
ABOUT jaidyn:
Jaidyn Schutz, of Welch, MN, discovered her interest in heavy equipment while working for a mechanic shop in high school.
“They had me operate the skid loader a couple times,” she said. “And that’s when I decided I wanted to get into operating.”
After graduation, she landed a job at Nadeau Companies and became a registered apprentice with the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 49. She expects to complete her apprenticeship this year and views her career as an operator as both fulfilling and life changing.
“I like the challenge of operating different equipment and seeing a project from start to finish — that’s pretty cool,” she said. “It pays really good, and it’s really nice to see my pension grow.”
Jaidyn enjoys working on various jobsites and learning from others, and she hopes to be a foreman someday.
Despite her hard work, Jaidyn says she wouldn’t be where she is now without a strong support system.
“I have my mom and my little sister who are my biggest supporters,” Jaidyn said. “And I also work with some really great guys who have given me the opportunity to advance and continue learning.”
Jaidyn's advice to others is to “listen and learn from your mentors, because they have the best insights and tips.”