A Tradesman’s Testimonial

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/05/02/opinion/a-tradesmans-testimonial.html

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To the Editor:

I am a proud member (50 years and counting) of Local 51 in Rhode Island, a union for plumbers, pipe fitters and refrigeration technicians. When I was younger, I measured four years of college against going to work in a field I was interested in, and opted for a life in construction. I am now retired from plumbing and performing in the occasional film or play.

Reading “From High School Straight to a Career,” by Katherine S. Newman and Hella Winston (Op-Ed, April 15), reminded me of many conversations I have had with those from the construction world and those from the theater world. There are talented, bright and creative people as well as “salt of the earth” types in both fields.

For anyone trying to decide between a trade — where a decent wage and a feeling of satisfaction when a job is finished are almost guaranteed — and that myth of “If I don’t go to college, I’ll never be anything,” I would highly recommend the former. I can say, from experience, that your phone will never stop ringing and your services will always be rewarded and respected.

As the Op-Ed article pointed out, there is a need for qualified, smart people to work in the building trades. For me, it was a great decision to take that path.

RICHARD DONELLY

Providence, R.I.