Employee Spotlight – Meet APM Subject Matter Expert, Ben Shefman!

This month’s #Employee Spotlight features APM Subject Matter Expert, Ben Shefman! Ben began working at APM jobs in 2016 and has since found much success in his career. From finishing his apprenticeship to being nominated as a 2025 Craftsman of the Year, he now finds himself as an SME after completing the required training at the LDC. Check out the below to get Ben’s perspective on the industry!

What are some roles you have at work, and outside of work? (ex. Superintendent, parent, board member, etc.)

·       Union Millwright

·       SME/Foreman

·       Member of the executive board at Local 1000

·       Father and husband

What led you to this industry and how did you first learn about APM?

I got into the millwrights by going to welding school after high school. An instructor at the tech school I attended was a union millwright and introduced me to the millwrights in Tampa. I first learned about APM when I got my first job call from the BA at the time. 

When did you begin working with APM and how many years have you been working with APM?

I started working for APM in February of 2016, so it’s just over ten years.

What is a typical workday for you?

I typically get to work earlier than most, eat my breakfast and relax before a shift, then we have our safety meeting and get to work.

What energizes you at work?

Providing for my family is what keeps me going at work.

What do you find the most challenging in your role?

The hardest thing at work is remembering that not all of us think the same and do things the same, and just because it's different doesn't mean it's wrong.

What do you like most about working with APM?

What I like most about working with APM is that I am able to work and provide for my family while my wife raises our daughter, we are lucky enough for one parent to be able to stay home so a daycare doesn't have to be taking care of our child while both parents have to work.

What courses, certifications, or programs did you complete?

I have completed my apprenticeship program and have finished the SME class at the LDC. 

What is your proudest moment with APM?

My proudest moment was being nominated for Craftsman of the Year.

Who has influenced you most when it comes to how you approach your work?

The person that influenced me the most was my first superintendent, Scotty Illgen. I worked for him throughout my whole apprenticeship and after I had journeyed out. He was a great mentor, and most people won't be as lucky as me to work for a man like him. 

How do you prefer to spend your days off?

My favorite thing to do is whatever my daughter wants to do. Working away from home, I like to make her happy when I am there. 

How do you balance your career at APM and family?

When I am working, I try to go home any day we have off. When I am off, I try to spend as much time with my family as possible.

What advice do you have for prospective APM candidates?

The advice I can give to anyone who wants to come work with us: be willing to learn, be coachable, have a good attitude and work for as many superintendents as you can. The more people you work with, the more you learn. 

What is a non-work-related accomplishment that you’re proud of?

My proudest accomplishment is becoming a father. Best thing that has ever happened to me.