Master electrician Nicole Gailliard was presented with October’s Ace of Trades award, during an appearance on Live in the D. It’s a recognition from Local 4’s Trade Up initiative in partnership with Carhartt that celebrates standout careers in the skilled trades.
Gailliard, of Few Energy and a member of IBEW Local 58, is leading work on a state-of-the-art virtual power plant project in Ann Arbor that features geothermal heating and solar. “I’ve always looked for things that gave light - not just tangibly, but what was put inside of me,” Gailliard said. “With electrical work, as I’m building things, everything has a purpose. You’re building a system for an end that you already know. It should work when I turn this on. Going into the trades gives me purpose in life.”
Her mother, Shirley Ellis-Gailliard, who nominated her for the honor, praised Nicole’s drive and discipline. “Nicole is passionate, committed and dedicated to her trade,” she said. “She continues to take classes and courses to educate herself so that she can become more successful in the trade… She tackles challenges with honesty and teamwork.”
Nicole Gailliard credited the union for providing the foundation of her career. “Local 58 built me,” she said. “There’s the training aspect, the discipline, and then there’s opportunity. I have so many brothers and sisters through the local who support me and uplift me. It’s been life changing.”
Brendan Lokes, senior manager of brand media for Carhartt, presented the award on air. “Being able to honor and put a spotlight on the hard-working people in the local Detroit community who are showing up every day, going above and beyond, and really being able to show what type of success career paths within the trades can provide,” Lokes said.
To watch the segment, click on the video above. If you’d like to nominate a tradesperson for future recognition and share their story at ClickOnDetroit.com/tradeup.