Nathan Embry

I was a hull welder on large, luxury houseboats. I welded a large variety of parts, and I was given many new projects to work on and figure out on the fly. I learned new techniques and how to operate new machinery. I put in over 50 hours a week, on my feet and working.

I would help unload the donations that people would bring for the thrift store. We would organize and sift through the donations, separating the good stuff from the not so good stuff. I was also given a few managerial responsibilities. When the lead wasn't at the store I would help with answering any questions and making decisions to help the daily functioning of the store. I also helped with pricing the items that would come in and then load said items. A large part of my job was dealing with customers who were displeased, helping them to feel heard and valued, while keeping to company policy. I also made sure to bring a positive attitude and leave people with a friendly impression.

While I worked here, I mainly helped with hanging pipe and following instructions. We would focus on following the schematics made by our engineers. This would include reading a blueprint, using problem-solving to follow the lines closely, ensuring the length is within the bounds of the pressure the furnace can put out, and using a variety of tools to accomplish tasks.

I would help with the installation of hot tubs, pool tables, game tables, etc. I helped with the electrical setup of hot tubs and the troubleshooting when problems arose. We would also give a class on the chemicals that were needed to maintain a healthy hot tub. I eventually became a lead at this job and would interact with the customers: collecting signatures, answering questions, coordinating details, and offering advice, among other things.

This was a startup that I worked for during high school. I would help with the assembly of chairs: cutting, drilling, measuring, and finally building. I also helped with shipping. I would package chairs and heavy metal fire pits, and I would print out and stick the shipping labels, making sure that they go to the right places. I also helped with keeping an eye on our inventory and letting the boss know when we were in need of hardware, wood, new blades, and things such as. I helped customers by selling them chairs or fire pits, offering insights, and making them feel welcomed and valued.