It was an electrician’s end of life musings that led Jake Herron to start his pipefitter apprenticeship in 2002. 

“I was working as a pipelayer when my ex-father-in-law mentioned that if he had a do over, he would join the Local 32”, recalls Jake, “I didn’t even know what a pipefitter was.” 

But Jake learned the trade quickly and has been running piping work since 2006. Now, with over 18 years of experience, Jake has worked on different types of projects including public works, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and tenant improvements.  He particularly likes the challenge of Special Projects because every day he is given the opportunity to find a solution, keep his mind moving, and learn new techniques.

One of his favorite jobs was replacing the diesel tank at 800 5th and is currently back on that project working on the lobby repositioning.  Jake takes pride in being able to keep his jobs on a timeline. He holds himself responsible for making sure the work done by his crew is high quality and completed on or ahead of schedule.

Jake usually has 10-20 active jobs, he currently has fewer jobs to manage due to COVID, but he knows this is temporary.  “Hermanson is hands down the best company I have ever worked for,” says Jake, “The quality of talented craftsmen in each trade gives me confidence this company will always do well.”

Jake has two adult children and his son, Luke, also works for Hermanson.  Jake recently purchased property in Maple Valley and hopes to introduce his two horses when the land has been cleared and the pastures restored. 

Jake says his keys to success are paying attention, good communication skills, and living one day at a time.    

Congratulations, Jake, for being a great example and representing Hermanson well in all you do.