I Build America Feature - Kheldon

This week’s I Build America feature is Kheldon @ravenlocke13, a Caterpillar technician. Check out his amazing story and his Instagram profile (linked above) for more incredible pictures of his work!

"I didn't know what career I wanted to pursue after high school. College was too expensive and I didn't want to jump right back into schooling. After a year of floating, I enlisted in the US Marine Corps under the mechanical option at the suggestion of my recruiter. During my time in Uniform as a Ground Support Equipment Technician, I was mentored by an outstanding Marine named Sgt. Ruiz whom I learned my direction from. There wasn't a question he couldn't answer and he was always willing to teach those who were looking for it. His expertise and knowledge inspired me to go to Wyotech for OTR Trucks after my EAS. After I graduated, I spent some time in a truck shop before wanting to learn more. I started work at Wheeler Cat as a Power Systems technician, where I learned to work on everything from generators to crushers.

My line of work is seen on most job sites but isn't what people typically think of when they imagine construction. My work keeps the job site lit at night with light towers, keeps the corded tools working with generators, keeps industrial engines of all sizes running at peak condition, and keeps dump trucks flawlessly moving earth with healthy systems. Most importantly, my work keeps the life support systems going in a hospital when utility power drops out with standby generator sets ready to go at a moments notice. If I could, I would tell anyone starting out three things: Never stop learning, never think any work is beneath you, and never be afraid to put in the work to progress!"