Carpenter James Lukashonak, of Phillipsburg, uses his skills to transform construction job sites into beautiful buildings. He can be found diligently working on a project until it is complete; not even the wind, rain, snow, nor heat can deter him from his passion. Lukashonak enjoys every minute on the job, and he credits his education at Warren County Technical School (WCTS) for his career success.
WCTS also recognizes Lukashonak as an example of a student who made the most of his career and technical education (CTE). The district recently highlighted his career journey as a success story during CTE Month.
Lukashonak graduated from WCTS’ Construction Technology program in 2020. The Construction Technology program offers comprehensive courses in all aspects of building and construction, and students in the program can obtain industry certifications such as the S/P2 Safety & Pollution Prevention Training.
“The education I received at WCTS prepared me for career success by giving me the foundation to form my carpenter career,” said Lukashonak. “WCTS’ Construction Technology course provided me with a great understanding of what it’s like to have a job in the construction field. From bookwork in the classroom to hands-on lessons with the instructor in the shop, I was taught how to perform in a safe, simple and timely manner. I also learned industry tips and tricks, the building process, and why construction tasks must be done in a particular order.”
Upon his graduation, Lukashonak furthered his education studying Carpentry and Construction Technology at Triangle Tech in Bethlehem, Pa. He graduated from Triangle Tech in October 2021 and then joined the United Brotherhood of Carpenters.
Although Lukashonak puts care into all of his work, he is especially proud of his accomplishments on a jobsite at Princeton, where he worked with DPR Construction. He and his crew oversaw a building’s exterior framing and siding. Lukashonak used large scissor lifts with a reach of 50 feet high and boom lifts reaching 100 feet high. He and his crew led the project’s drilling, staining, route-ring and inspection.
“Being able to end the day with satisfaction and being proud of the work the crew and I completed is a wonderful feeling,” said Lukashonak. “I love driving by the site and seeing the finished product, knowing I helped create the result while perfecting my craft and earning a living.”