#Duckumentary- Bobby Hamilton

Is there a jobsite you’ve worked on that stands out to you? Why?

That’s a hard question. If I had to pick one, I’d go with Air Products in Allentown. I was a 75% apprentice at the time, and I learned a lot on that job. It was a wide scope of work, from block work and pavers to hung granite, granite benches, and a stone fountain. I was there from start to finish and had the opportunity to learn from a lot of great people.

What’s one thing that helps a jobsite run smoothly?

I believe one of the most important things for a job to run smoothly is communication. When everyone knows their role and stays in communication with each other, it’s hard not to have a smooth-running job.

What’s something people would be surprised to learn about your job?

My job isn’t just about working and doing timesheets. A lot of it involves social skills, whether it’s knowing how to talk to the men on the job or communicating with the GC. Being able to work well with different people is a big part of the job.

What’s your go-to sandwich or lunch order?

I like to take an early break, so I usually stick with a simple sausage, egg, and cheese. Or I’ll steal one of my kids’ Uncrustables.

What motivates you on the job?

I’m really big on learning and continuing to improve. I love being able to learn something new that helps me become a better mason. I take a lot of pride in my work, just like my father did.

What’s one tool you couldn’t live without?

I’d say my notebook and a sharp pencil. They help me remember things and catch mistakes I’ve made.

Who’s someone at EDA who makes your day better?

There are so many people who have helped me and made working at EDA great. But if I had to pick one person who has always been there for me, I’d have to say Michael Shoemaker. He’s always had my back and has always talked to me, not down to me, even when I was an apprentice. If I ever have a question, I know I can count on him to give me a good opinion. He also won’t hesitate to tell me if I mess up somewhere, and that’s a big deal to me. Sometimes I need to be put in check so I can learn from my mistakes.

What’s one musical artist or podcast you couldn’t live without?

I like a lot of different music, but if I had to pick, I’d say Tom Petty or The Eagles. When I was a kid, I’d ride to my grandmother’s house with my mom every Sunday for spaghetti and meatballs, jamming out to them together. I never want to lose those memories.

What does “Successful Together” look like on a jobsite?

To me, “Successful Together” on a jobsite means everyone performs their tasks safely and efficiently while also having fun. A good job, to me, is when everyone can joke around with each other. I don’t know about anyone else, but I don’t work to be miserable. I have fun every day.

If you weren’t in construction, what would you be doing?

I only became a mason because I’ve been learning it from a young age. I’m a third-generation mason. If I could have done it differently, I probably would have been a park ranger. I’m big on the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and hiking.