Workforce Spotlight: Marquis Ruffin
Born and raised in Chicago’s Englewood neighborhood, Marquis Ruffin was first introduced to the building trades through St. Paul Community Development Ministries’ twelve-week pre-apprenticeship training program. After completing his carpentry apprenticeship, he joined the team at W.E. O’Neil as part of Concrete Collective and began working on the Obama Presidential Center project.
Marquis spoke with Lakeside Alliance about his journey in construction, what this project means to him and more. Read on below:
What kind of support did St. Paul Community Development Ministries (SPCDM) provide?
Ruffin: The pre-apprenticeship training program opened my eyes to a multitude of different trades. Originally, I didn’t know much about trades beyond the electricians and plumbers, but having different companies and superintendents come in to give us insight on the field and what to expect when you get out there was really helpful. The program also prepared me for my apprenticeship test, which I passed in March.
What is your role in the Obama Presidential Center project?
Ruffin: I’m in the scaffolding crew, which means I help build towers and get things ready for the deckers to do their part. I have primarily been working on the Library portion so far, but I’m also getting to move to different crews and gain experience in everything.
What do you enjoy about your work?
Ruffin: One thing I really enjoy is my crew. We have an outstanding crew with a supportive foreman who understands me as a person. When it comes to the work, it comes down to knowing that you’re building something that means something. This project especially is more than just putting things up and nailing stuff together — the end result is something with way more of an impact on the community.
What does it mean to you to be a part of the Center?
Ruffin: Professionally, it’s a great opportunity to explore the multitude of subdivisions within carpentry. I’m gaining experience in concrete which is challenging and physically demanding, but I like the hard work. Personally, I’m from Englewood on the South Side, so there is a sentimental aspect when I think about my kids and grandkids coming to see something I helped build in the community.
What is your greatest hope for the outcome of the project?
Ruffin: That it changes not only the community, but the culture. That it really shows kids, especially minorities, that there is more to life than what they're used to seeing on social media. And that the building and its resources change everything for the better.
What advice would you give someone considering a career in the building trades?
Ruffin: Go for it! Take whatever information people have to offer you and always be eager to learn. Be willing to work hard, but remember to focus on producing quality over quantity.