Marie Line Pinet – Steel Fabricator Journeyperson
I really enjoy my line of work. I have to tell you that my first choice as a career was to be an esthetician. For some reason, I got accepted into the Steel Fabricator program and decided to give it a try. Now I am in charge of my department. Most men didn’t think I could “hang in there” because I am a woman. I had to prove myself and I did. More importantly, I am very proud of the job that I do.
Sandra Cole London – Construction Electrician Journeyperson
I completed my apprenticeship in 2001 and am still employed as an Electrician. I did get a promotion. I like my job and I wouldn’t change anything! I had no problems whatsoever because I am a woman. I was always treated like everyone else in the trade. Everybody respected me.
Joshua Savoie – Construction Electrician Apprentice
I started in the electrical trade when I was in grade 12 as a pre-apprentice through a Co-op program at school. After I graduated I started to work for an electrical contractor, the following year I was going for my first block. I am now going on my third year in the Apprenticeship program and I personally think that the program is the best way to learn a career. While working side by side with a journeyperson I learn the practical side of my trade and get paid a very good salary. When I go for my block release training I also receive money to pay for my tuition and other expenses.
Deborah Campbell – Power Engineer 2nd Class Journeyperson
"Completing an apprenticeship was an excellent choice. It gave me a job security, career satisfaction and a better lifestyle. I would recommend the apprenticeship program to anyone."
Matthew Young – Construction Electrician Journeyperson
Since I have started the Electrical apprenticeship program, I have learned extensive practical knowledge working with licensed electricians on the job. The blocks at Community College have greatly extended my practical as well as my technical knowledge that I need to become a licensed electrician which is my goal. The apprenticeship program has enabled me to meet my financial commitments as a single person, then as a husband and presently as the father of a baby boy. I would highly recommend apprenticeship to anyone interested.
Thérése Fournier – Welder Journeyperson
I was 40 years old when I decided to become an apprentice. To be able to do a job like mine, yes, you need muscles, but I am not expected to lift 200 pounds. As for the quality of my job – I can tell you that I am a perfectionist. For the other women considering a job in a non-traditional occupation– “don’t hesitate for one second, go ahead and do whatever it takes to achieve your goal. I know there are women who can do what I am doing and even more. You just don’t know what or where your willpower will get you!!”
Brian Dugan – Industrial Electrician Journeyperson
My apprenticeship experience has been a good one. It has given me valuable training in a good trade. Apprenticeship has helped me get a secure job with good pay and has also made me more valuable to my employer. I highly recommend the apprenticeship trade experience to anyone.
Jeremy MacPherson – Automotive Service Technician Journeyperson
"I attended college before joining the apprenticeship program as an apprentice auto service technician. I was getting the hands-on experience on the job as well as the classroom learning. Completing my apprenticeship has given me more opportunities and increased career flexibility. I can relocate anywhere in Canada now that I'm a journeyperson and my long-term goal is to become an instructor."