Meet Jonathan Ford, a fourth-year apprentice with Local 702 in Jacksonville, FL, who is getting ready to graduate in July of 2026. His journey into the trades began at a trade school, where carpentry was one of the three options he explored. Jonathan was quickly inspired by his instructor to pursue an apprenticeship program in carpentry, and he hasn’t looked back since.
Before joining the union, Jonathan worked non-union jobs, gaining experience on high-rise buildings and tilt-up concrete projects. His research on the apprenticeship program opened his eyes to the opportunities available in carpentry.
Among the highlights of Johnathan’s journey, he recalls doing a roofing project on a roofing distribution center. This project gave him a new perspective on the type of work carpenters can do. Today, Jonathan primarily works on concrete projects, but he enjoys the variety of work and the chance to learn new skills.
Stepping into leadership has been Jonathan’s biggest challenge in the program so far. “Learning how to work well with others and supervising them has taught me patience”, he shares. He also values the lessons that good and bad leaders have taught him along the way. He is gr
Jonathan’s most rewarding part of the job is the feeling of accomplishment he gets after completing a project. He shares, “All the memories, sweat, blood, and frustrations that go into a job to create a finished project make this work more meaningful.”
His work has taken him beyond Jacksonville, and one of his most memorable job assignments was with Owens Corning in Savannah, GA. This experience strengthened his sense of brotherhood and gave him the opportunity to work in new cities and in different environments.
Looking ahead, Jonathan hopes to continue growing with his current contractor. He is interested in traveling for work but remains focused on becoming a foreman. He is open to further education if it helps him advance his career, and he is grateful for the opportunities the apprenticeship program has given him.
Outside of work, Jonathan enjoys playing basketball, attending church in Bernadino Beach, and spending time at the beach and local springs, where he freedives. He is also a fan of action movies, especially those from Marvel and DC universes.
His advice to individuals thinking about joining the apprenticeship program is, “If you like creating structures and working with your hands, this craft is for you. The apprenticeship program gives you the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Pay attention to detail and dedicate yourself to the work, and success will follow.” Jonathan is quick to express gratitude for his journey, saying, “I want to thank the Lord for the strength He has provided and for the life I have now. I look forward to the next chapter in life with Him by my side.”