What is your name and trade?

Scott Parker, General Construction

Describe job requirements and tools you are required to have:

Complete facility maintenance and construction including vehicle and equipment maintenance and repair. Tools needed: All of them! And some more

What kind of experience do you have (training, on the job, military)? How much would recommend others have?

Training and learning are non-stop, I recommend that you keep absorbing on the job knowledge until you take the ol’ “dirt nap”

What made you decide to enter your particular field of work?

It was where my skill and aptitude was.

What kind of education is required or would you suggest?

Please see #3

How long did your trade education take to accomplish? Is continuing education required?

It’s still a work in progress, a never ending one.

Are there special skills one needs to enter your field of work?

Good general knowledge of all things mechanical, irrigation/piping hydraulics and design, metalworking, and most importantly… “Impromptu Engineering”.

Do you remember your first day on the job? Describe it for us.

It was stressful; I was going from being the boss to being an underling. Having to impress and please a new superior, and learn on the run.

Briefly describe your typical day on the job – hours worked, challenges, etc.

I work 8 ½ to 9 ½ hours per day. We have 130 acres in production, with a water demand of 850 gallons per minute 10 hours a day. Over twenty motorized vehicles and equipment, as well as major planting machines, etc.

What was the best advice you received about your job and trade?

About the industry; “Grow what they want, sell what you grow, have fun, make money”. About my trade(s) “You get what you inspect, not what you expect”.

What advice would you give to someone interested in entering your trade?

Make sure of the viability/sustainability of your company, and that they understand just what is really needed to do the job.

What is the best thing about your job or what do you like the most?

I get to work in the beautiful San Diego countryside, as well as having the freedom to invent and solve problems with full support.