In honor of Skilled Trades Week, May 5–9, Express Employment Professionals recognizes five outstanding Skilled Trades associates! These associates were nominated by their local offices across the U.S. and chosen to receive recognition by Express International based on their work ethic, skill, character, and job performance.
Read the winners’ inspirational stories from the offices that nominated them.
Adrian Z., Facilities Maintenance Technician
Nominating Express Office: Pittsburgh West, PA
Adrian has outstanding work ethic, dedication, and has brought exceptional value to the client as their new Facilities Maintenance Technician. Adrian has proven himself to be an invaluable member of the team since he began his assignment in December. The client was thoroughly impressed by his skills and professionalism. Adrian’s performance has been nothing short of exceptional, and he has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the job and his personal growth.
In fact, the client had the following to say about Adrian: “He is self-motivated, ambitious, conscientious, and has a great attitude. I’m glad to have him as part of the maintenance staff.” These words speak volumes about Adrian’s character and the positive impact he has had on the team.
In addition to his technical skills, Adrian’s work ethic and attitude make him a standout candidate. His self-motivation, ambition, and conscientious approach to his work make him not only a skilled tradesman but also a role model for others in the field. He is a shining example of the kind of professional who contributes not only to his team but also to the larger success of the organization.
Jerry S., Welder
Nominating Express Office: Yuba City, CA
When Jerry moved to the area, he didn’t have many connections. He had spent the last few years working in landscaping and felt stuck trying to get back into welding. Even with years of solid experience, he wasn’t getting any callbacks.
That opportunity came when an Express client needed a welder. Jerry took a weld test, and the client supervisor was floored. He said, “I haven’t been this impressed with someone in a really long time,” and offered him the job on the spot. Jerry has been with this client since February 2025 and is already on track for a permanent hire. He’s proven to be reliable, highly skilled, and a great fit for their team.
Jerry is a true craftsman—skilled in MIG, TIG, Stick, and Dual Shield welding. He’s built everything from staircases to industrial equipment and works confidently from blueprints and complex weld specs.
Marcus M., Drilling Site Supervisor
Nominating Express Office: Temple, TX
Marcus began his assignment with the client as a drill operator in February 2024 and was officially hired in June 2024. Once hired on full time, he was immediately promoted to Site Supervisor for projects—a testament to his leadership and work ethic.
Marcus, who lives with a disability, has shown incredible determination in advancing his career. Recognizing his potential and drive, the client stepped in to support his journey by funding a high-quality prosthetic left hand. This vital support not only improved Marcus’s day-to-day functionality but also enabled him to pursue additional certifications in heavy equipment operation—a field he is passionate about. He is now taking the initiative to earn his CDL, further expanding his skill set and value to the team.
Samuel R., Class A CDL Driver
Nominating Express Office: Champaign, IL
Since being placed on assignment through our team, Sam has gone above and beyond as a CDL driver. He recently stepped into a critical route with a client’s largest contract customers and absolutely hit the ground running. Sam’s strong work ethic, professionalism, and positive attitude have made a lasting impression—not just on the client, but on their customer as well.
Sam quickly built a strong partnership with his teammate, Isaiah, creating a dependable routine that’s keeping things running smoothly. He consistently shows up ready to help wherever needed, and he’s become a true ambassador for the company he’s placed with.
Here’s what the client had to say: “Sam recently took over our largest contract customer and has knocked it out of the park. He and Isaiah have developed a great routine, and the customer is super happy! He brings a positive attitude to work and is always willing to help out where needed. He speaks very highly of our company and the position—much appreciated!”
Vadim D., Machinist
Nominating Express Office: Waterloo, IA
Vadim truly deserves this award because of his strong skills and reliability. He started in a temporary metal finishing role but was such a valuable worker that the company offered him a long-term machinist position.
After moving to the U.S. from Russia, Vadim struggled to find a job at first, but he never lost trust in Express. He believed Express would find him the right opportunity.
A direct quote from the client says it all: “He is doing a great job, and we are interviewing him for a full-time Laser Operator position. Vadim is an exceptional employee, and we are very happy with him. We can see Vadim working in a couple of different areas—he brings so much to the table.”
About Express Employment Professionals
Express helped 63,000 job seekers find Skilled Trades jobs in 2024 and has put more than 11 million people to work in its over 40 years as a leading staffing company. Each of our more than 870 locations is individually owned and locally operated. Contact the office nearest you to find your next Skilled Trades role.
