Veteran Snapshot: Lowell Schaper
Although Lowell Schaper has only been a part of the B&W team for the past five months, he says he loves telling other people, especially veterans like himself, about his job. Schaper served as a mechanic in the Navy and has transitioned smoothly to his new job at B&W; even suggesting his experience in the military prepared him for his new position.
Schaper says one of the things he values most about the company is the training program and their commitment to hiring and learning from veterans. “Their open-mindedness to listen to, and learn from us is a big deal coming from a company as experienced as B&W,” Schaper said.
Not only does B&W make an effort to value each employee by listening to their experiences, but they also take time to train and equip each employee. Schaper said one of the things he was most impressed with was B&W’s mentoring program. The purpose of the program is for “people who are more experienced in the company to take you under their wing and train you up. They share as much information as they can, answer questions, and give you opportunities to demonstrate your skills… I feel like this is a huge recipe for success,” Schaper said.
Schaper said the first time he applied for jobs post military, he sold himself short, afraid that he wouldn’t have enough experience. But B&W quickly banished any fears he wouldn’t be prepared on the job because of their thorough training process. “I was impressed with the training program and how they put everything together. Everyone was enthusiastic to get all the new people up to speed and introduce us to how we do business,” Schaper said. On his first job site, Schaper reports he felt prepared and very comfortable.
To other veterans who are interested in applying, Schaper shares that B&W “wants to know what I learned in the military. It makes you feel appreciated, very important. I get a lot of job satisfaction out of that.” Consider applying at B&W Energy Services today, to become a contributing member of a team that works to value each employee and train them effectively.
