Wasn't expecting to stay at 84 long-term, but management, associates & company culture completely changed my mind.
Pros
Company that firmly stands by what it says, nice benefits package, very responsive & supportive associates (across departments) ----- I started at 84 Lumber after making a career change - without any major expectations of the company (good or bad) and little practical experience with the specific languages or frameworks that I would be using for my job. Honestly, I just felt extremely fortunate that they gave me a chance. Starting off, I was brought into projects, introduced to those involved, and given whatever background info was available - then basically turned loose to research, develop a plan, and work things out. Since I've been here, I've learned pretty much everything that I needed to know (in order to get things done) while on the job - that appears to be the norm from what I've seen, and "grit" (i.e. taking the initiative to research and "figure things out") is recognized, supported and appreciated. ----- While at 84, I've had the unique opportunity to work through (and occasionally rewrite) a lot of legacy code across a number of languages & frameworks (best way to learn is by example, IMO), as well as use the latest & greatest tools & frameworks - easily 4x the exposure to different technologies than I would have had most places. At no point in time have I ever felt like other developers were dumping their busy work on my plate - the opportunities that I've had working with others have all been appropriate and collaborative. This was true even when I first started (as a legitimate "junior"). ----- Ever since I started, management has been extremely supportive - including of me as a person (i.e. work/life balance), as well as my own project ideas, suggestions & requests. 84 leadership also supported me personally during onboarding (verbal promise was honored, despite being contrary to what was in writing later) and multiple times over the years since then (during some other personal accommodations and personal matters). In my experience, they put their money where their mouth is and stand by what they say. ----- The hardest part of my job at this point is probably planning - there are a lot of different projects and details, so deciding how to scope and prioritize things properly can be a challenge. I'm happy to say that it hasn't been management or company policies. ----- By far, the most enjoyable part of my job is that craftsmanship is recognized and supported - period. In my experience - regardless of the sector, it is rare to find support for craftsmanship outside of the group that might produce a company's "core" product (i.e. where craftsmanship can make or break sales). It is rarer still to find a company that values craftsmanship & grit across the board (i.e. even in IT, where I've worked for decades). So, frankly, the most enjoyable part of my job is being able to figure out a good way to do something for the long-term, and then working hard to make that dream come true. Subsequently being supported, recognized & rewarded just makes it even more worthwhile & enjoyable - and that's why I have absolutely no plans to go anywhere else (I've seen what's out there...).
Cons
9-hour work days, facial hair policies (they do have accommodations, but it's a process), uniform policies.
