Aliegh’s Story: Missouri Works Initiative

Aliegh Monroe thought she had found a career that would last in the dental field. She had attended college but never completed a degree and found herself repeatedly feeling burned out by jobs that just didn’t cover the bills. In the back of her mind, however, was an interest that had been there for years: the skilled trades. “I always knew I wanted to work in the trades, but just never thought I had it in me to do so,” recalls Aliegh.

Growing up around construction through her father’s work, Aliegh was familiar with the trades but wasn’t sure how to turn that interest into a career of her own. While searching online for ways to get her foot in the door, she discovered Missouri Works Initiative through social media. “I signed up to make a change in my life, and to set myself up to build a career and future to better myself,” Aliegh said. After applying, she connected with Russ Unger, Construction Program Coordinator for Mid-Missouri, who helped guide her through the program, and later toward opportunities in the industry.

Aliegh hit the ground running in the program, visiting training centers gave her the opportunity to speak directly with instructors and industry professionals while gaining a better understanding of what they look for in apprentices. She also developed practical skills she could take directly to the jobsite, including properly reading a tape measure, construction math and understanding how to prepare for the expectations of an apprenticeship. 

The experience gave Aliegh the knowledge and confidence she needed to make the transition into a career in construction. Through the program, she connected with Millstone Weber and joined Laborers Local 955 in Columbia. Today, she works as a construction laborer in general highway construction. “My life has changed for the better,” Aliegh said. “I’m not struggling financially like I was beforehand. I love what I do every day.”

Finding the right career has also given her an opportunity to continue learning. Aliegh credits the crew she works alongside with helping her feel at home in the industry. “I got put with an amazing crew at my job, and they have been amazing to work with,” she said. “Learning with them every day has made the job so easy to fit into.”

Aliegh also credits Unger with helping her believe that a career in the trades was possible. “Russ Unger believed in me and gave me the opportunity to go through the program with him,” she said. “His teaching and guidance were a huge step in where I am today.”

Looking back, Aliegh hopes her experience inspires others who may be interested in the trades but aren’t sure whether they should take the leap. “The program is definitely worth the time for someone who is battling the back and forth in their head to do it. Take the chance and go after it.”

Aliegh is grateful for everyone who supported her along the way, including MWI, Millstone Weber, her crew and the people in her corner who encouraged her to pursue a new path. What began as uncertainty about whether she belonged in the trades has become a career she loves and a more secure future. Aliegh’s advice is to trust the process, believe in yourself and be willing to put in the work, even when the path isn’t easy. “Not every day will be easy,” says Aliegh, “but the program is definitely the right step in the right direction.”

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