Olivia Gillman
pile drivers local 1847
ABOUT olivia:
Olivia Gillman was drawn to the trades by a desire for hands-on work that challenged her both physically and mentally. After exploring different college paths, she discovered commercial diving and underwater welding, drawn to the technical skill and problem-solving the work required. That path led her to Veit, where she learned about the union and the opportunity to work as a pile driver through Local 1847. Wanting to expand her skillset, Olivia embraced pile driving alongside her diving work, even though it was a career she had never imagined for herself.
What Olivia enjoys most about being in the trades for the past five and a half years is the variety of the work and the people she works alongside. No two days are the same, with tasks ranging from welding and torching to concrete work, fabrication, and installing or removing piling. Union training and certifications have allowed her to take on complex projects, while the camaraderie on the jobsite has made the work especially meaningful.
Through her career, Olivia has learned the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and confidence, particularly as a woman in a male-dominated field. She has grown from a new apprentice into a journeyman who continues to learn and mentor others. Olivia takes pride in knowing her work helps build lasting infrastructure for communities and looks forward to continuing to grow in a trade that challenges and motivates her every day.