S11, EP 308 - Pipeline Trench Talk 01 - Crane Operator Clem Conceicao

In this episode of the Build America podcast, I sit down with Clem Kansisau, a veteran crane operator with over 37 years in the union. We are recording on location in Honolulu, Hawaii, where Clem and I have reunited on a project 20 years after we first worked together. Clem shares his deep history in the trades, stemming from a family legacy of crane operators, and offers a candid look at how the industry has evolved from the "muscle" of friction cranes to today’s high tech hydraulic machines. We dive into the critical importance of safety, the reality of working within load charts, and the "feel" required to be one with a machine that holds lives in its hands. Clem also provides invaluable advice for young engineers and tradespeople on staying alert, avoiding the distractions of technology on site, and the value of learning through hands on experience rather than just a search engine. Key TakeawaysFamily Legacy: Clem discusses growing up in a family of operators and how his father made a living running tower cranes in Waikiki. The Evolution of Cranes: A comparison between the "friction cranes" of the past that required immense physical energy and the computer assisted hydraulic cranes of today. Safety First: Why staying within the load chart is the only way to operate and the importance of never walking under a live load. Advice for the Next Generation: Clem explains why young professionals need to "keep their head on a swivel" and move away from their iPads to truly understand the job site cycle. The Trades as a Career: A look at the financial stability and quality of life offered by union trades in Hawaii. The Build America Book Series: Available on Amazon. Ted the Termite Children’s Books: A fun way to introduce kids to the world of construction, available on Amazon. Resources MentionedThe Build America Book Series: Available on Amazon. Ted the Termite Children’s Books: A fun way to introduce kids to the world of construction, available on Amazon. Work safe. #ConstructionLife #CraneOperator #BuildAmerica #SkilledTrades #HeavyEquipment #JobSiteSafety #ConstructionPodcast #BlueCollarLife #Engineering #WorkSafe