Asked why he left his job of 17 years, Andy Brewer said, “I was ready to see daylight again!” 

Andy had worked underground at a coal mine and decided to take a break while he planned his next career step. Having worked in a variety of roles at the coal mine and also spent six years at Toyota’s manufacturing plant, he was ready for something different.  

That’s when he heard about the BY Roads class in Evansville. He figured it would be a good opportunity to learn something new, and he was intrigued by the idea of working on roads and bridges – outside and in daylight. 

Now Andy says taking the BY Roads class was the best thing he’s ever done. 

“I hated going to school as a kid,” he said. “But Brad Wallace, the instructor, was phenomenal. I’m 45 years old, and I’d never had anyone teach the way he did. He was good at explaining things, he didn’t single anyone out, and he even made it fun.” 

Even with more than an hour drive each way, Andy said and the class was worth it. He now has a job with the Laborers’ Local 561 and, while his hourly wage is a little less than working at the coal mine, he sees more value in his new job. “As long as there’s more happiness for me and my family, I’m good with it,” he said.  

Stories like Andy’s wouldn’t be possible without support from Lilly Endowment – Thank you!