A Millwright is a highly skilled tradesperson in charge of the assembly, maintenance, and repair of heavy machinery in factories, construction sites, or poser plants. When machines are no longer needed, Millwrights also see to their safe dismantling. 

Millwrights use hand tools such as hammers and levers to see to repairs on their work machines. If they're working on large-scale projects, they may use cranes or forklifts. All of this equipment comes with safety protocols. The Millwrights' number one concern at all times should be their safety, as well as the safety of their teammates. 

As the name suggests, the Millwright profession originated during the industrial revolution when factory owners needed someone to fix the machinery in sawmills, paper mills, and other large factories. Although mills existed before the industrial revolution, it was really during this time that the profession became formalized and recognized as a distinct career. 

A significant portion of Millwrights are unionized, and these union positions offer both job security and financial benefits. 

Personality of a Millwright
Millwrights tend to be mechanically inclined, investigative people. They like to know how things work, and they enjoy working with their hands. If you're considering a career as a Millwright, think about your personality and if the following applies to you.  

• Manual Dexterity

Depending on the context, you may have to work with tiny machine parts or giant machines several stories tall. It would help if you had good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity to fix the malfunction properly. 

• Good Spatial and Visual Awareness

When reading blueprints, you need to understand the scale, how a machine will look when assembled, and understand the space you have to install the device.  

• Teamwork

Millwrights work in a team with engineers, operators, and other tradespeople. They need to be team players who understand their role within the company and work to achieve a common goal with their colleagues.