Jaymes Sanford: A Life-Changing Experience

JOURNAL: ISSUE 3 - 2016

Prior to joining BAC in 2012, Jaymes Sanford was paid $11 per hour working in a factory that manufactures plastic bags. "Two bricklayers of BAC Local 5 Ohio were working on a project in the apartment building I was living in. One day I went up to them and asked how much they make," Brother Sanford, now a third-year apprentice of Local 5 OH, recalled. "Their answer changed my life. Right after the conversation, I signed up, became a bricklayer, and started making $35 an hour. That's a big difference."  

A father of five, Brother Sanford works tirelessly to provide for his family and believes that every hardworking person should deserve a decent living. "Bricklaying is not an easy job, but a rewarding one, as long as you stay focused and keep moving forward," he said. Today he is very proud of what he has achieved including being a few hours away from becoming a journeyperson. "It is true that you earn while you learn," he spoke from his life-changing experience. "Our classes are taught by experienced instructors, and I continue to grow and only get better day by day. On top of that, I have good pay, a pension plan, and healthcare benefits for my family."

BAC Local 5 Ohio member Jaymes Sanford working on the Lakewood High School's new building in August.

That is exactly why Brother Sanford never shies away from talking to young people, no matter their backgrounds. "In Cleveland, we have a large population of minorities. Not every high school offers career options in the building trades. In the areas where they live, they may have never heard of bricklayer jobs. We can do much more with our local schools and communities," Brother Sanford suggested. "I have a few younger guys living in my neighborhood. Whenever I have a chance, I usually take my time to tell them how to apply for our apprenticeship and training programs to get them started with a promising career." 

Ken Kudela, Director of BAC Ohio-Kentucky Administrative District Council (OH-KY ADC), agrees with Brother Sanford on the importance of reaching out to all demographic groups. "We're making concerted efforts to work with state and local governments, job recruitment agencies and community groups to open doors to as many as possible including minorities, women, and veterans," Kudela said. "Besides BAC/IMI International Training Center in Bowie, Maryland, the ADC now has three regional training facilities throughout Ohio, so our members in the state can get quality training without too much traveling." 

In light of the upcoming presidential election, Brother Sanford calls upon all U.S. members to get out the vote. "Please make sure you vote because every vote counts," he said. "Vote for the candidate that supports our working families."

Brother Sanford with his wife Dominique and their kids Zariah, Jakiyah, Jaylin, and Jaymes.