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Author: Meghan Brown

  • Pourquoi pas faire du bénévole cet été?

    L’été est enfin arrivé et l’année scolaire est presque terminée. La question que tout le monde se pose est: Comment allez-vous passer votre été?

    Si vous cherchez à tirer le meilleur parti de vos vacances d’été, pensez à donner un peu de votre temps et faites du bénévolat!

    Vous apprendrez de nouvelles habiletés, acquerrez de l’expérience qui vous servira dans le marché de travail ou à l’école, et ferez plein de nouvelles connaissances. Le bénévolat est également une excellente façon d’apprendre quelque chose de nouveau dans un domaine qui pique votre curiosité, mais avec lequel vous n’êtes peut-être pas familier. Vous pourriez découvrir une nouvelle passion, ou une future carrière.

    Décidez où faire du bénévolat n’est pas un choix facile. La plupart des petites et grandes villes offrent beaucoup d’options de bénévolat, et trouver laquelle qui vous conviendra le mieux peut être la partie la plus difficile. Une bonne première étape dans votre décision est de penser à vos talents, aux activités que vous aimez faire, ou aux activités qui vous intéressent, mais que vous n’avez jamais essayées. Ensuite, cherchez des options de bénévolat qui correspondent à ceux-ci.

    Demandez-vous, « Qu’est-ce qui m’intéresse … »

    • Les plantes, la nature, ou le jardinage? La société d’horticulture de votre communauté peut gérer des projets tels que des jardins de fleurs et potagers communautaires, ou des projets de plantation dans des espaces publics.
    • Les enfants et les sports? Des organisations telles que le YMCA ou le Club de Garçons et Filles, et les ligues sportives communautaires pour les jeunes, ont souvent besoin de bénévoles afin d’assister avec leurs programmes et activités.
    • Les enfants et la lecture? Les bibliothèques municipales offrent aux enfants et aux jeunes des programmes d’été axés sur les activités d’alphabétisation, qui incluent une variété de jeux, l’heure du conte, ou des sessions de lecture entre pairs.
    • Travailler avec les animaux? Les refuges pour animaux communautaires ont souvent besoin de bénévoles pour assister avec le nettoyage des cages et pour aider avec la socialisation des animaux.
    • La médicine ou travailler avec les personnes âgées? Plusieurs hôpitaux et maisons de retraite gèrent des programmes où les bénévoles rendent visite aux patients et aux résidents, et participent avec eux à divers activités telles que des jeux, des projets artisanaux, et de l’exercice.
    • Les arts et de la culture? L’été est riche d’événements et de festivals qui dépendent sur l’aide de bénévoles, tels que les festivals de musique en plein air, les foires artisanales, ou les événements de théâtres/arts de la scène, tels que ceux organisés par le Canadian Association of Fringe Festivals. L’été est également la saison des conventions des fans, et un grand nombre de ces types de conventions, tels que FanExpo Canada, offrent plusieurs postes de bénévoles, soit pour quelques heures, une journée complète, ou toute une fin de semaine.
    • Travailler avec vos mains? Habitat pour l’humanité, et d’autres organisations semblables dans votre région, sont souvent plus actives durant les mois d’été, et ont typiquement besoin de bras supplémentaires lorsque elles ont de grands projets en cours.
    • Les services sociaux et les organisations à but non lucratif? La plupart des villes canadiennes ont des banques alimentaires, des installations de Goodwill et de l’Armée du salut, et une multitude d’autres sociétés et de programmes communautaires à but non lucratif, dont chacun dépend sur l’aide de bénévoles afin d’appuyer leurs efforts dans la communauté.

    Bien sûr que celles-ci ne sont que quelques-unes des options qui vous sont disponibles. Peu importe le type de bénévolat qui vous intéresse, la deuxième étape est de toujours…

    Faire votre recherche!

    S’il y en a un, consultez le site web de l’événement ou de l’organisation qui vous intéresse, afin de voir si leurs besoins pour des bénévoles y sont affichés; si non, contactez-celui-ci pour vous renseigner. Assurez-vous de vous informer sur les sortes de tâches qui seront exigées ou qui vous seront assignées, s’il y a des conditions ou des restrictions d’âge, et le nombre d’heures qu’on s’attendra à ce que vous complétiez.

    Une fois que vous avez décidez où vous allez donner de votre temps à titre de bénévole, la troisième étape est de…

    VOUS AMUSER!

     

     

  • Est-ce que le monde de l’entreprise est pour vous?

    Vous vous demandez peut-être « Quelle carrière dois-je entreprendre après avoir terminé mes études? » Vous pouvez considérer un emploi de col bleu et travailler dans les métiers spécialisés, tel qu’un plombier, électricien ou un travailleur de la construction. Vous pouvez démarrer votre propre entreprise. Ou encore, vous pouvez considérer un emploi de col blanc et travailler pour une grande entreprise. Évaluez toutes vos options – vous en avez tellement. Chaque voie à ses avantages et ses désavantages, par contre c’est à vous de déterminer ce que vous pouvez, et ne pouvez pas gérer.

    Lorsque les gens font référence à un emploi en entreprise, ils désignent un emploi de bureau, comme celui d’un comptable, d’un directeur ou d’un avocat. Un grand nombre de diplômés aspirent à travailler pour une grande entreprise en raison des salaires élevés et le prestige associés à ces types d’emplois. Toutefois, avant de se lancer dans une carrière dans le monde de l’entreprise, vous devez d’abord vous demander si cela est le bon choix pour vous.

    Préférez-vous travailler selon un horaire fixe? La majorité des emplois en entreprise commencent à 8h30 et terminent à 16h30. À moins d’avoir un patron assez relaxe, il n’appréciera pas que vous vous présentiez en retard pour le travail tout le temps ou quittez plus tôt régulièrement.

    Aimez-vous vous porter une tenue professionnelle? Vous pouvez être requis de porter un costume pour le travail, surtout si vous êtes un avocat ou un directeur. Parfois, vous pouvez vous en sortir à ne pas porter un complet, mais vous devez quand même avoir une tenue professionnelle.

    Êtes-vous une personne privée? Dans un environnement de bureau, il n’existe aucune intimité. Tout le monde peut voir quand vous arrivez au travail ou quand vous partez, et peut écouter vos conversations téléphoniques. Votre patron peut regarder par-dessus votre épaule et vous regarder travailler, et même surveiller votre utilisation du téléphone, de l’internet et de votre ordinateur.

    Aimez-vous vous exprimer et partager votre opinion? La culture du milieu de travail représente les règles non écrites sur les façons dont vous devez vous comporter. Si vous faites un faux pas ou parlez à un collègue de manière inappropriée, vous risquez de l’offenser. Et, si la personne que vous avez offensez occupe une position de pouvoir au sein de l’organisation, elle peut soit vous congédier ou vous rendre la vie au travail misérable.

    Êtes-vous quelqu’un qui aime respecter les règles? Les grandes entreprises ont une règle pour presque tout: la manière dont vous vous comportez au travail, vos heures de travail, votre tenue vestimentaire – pour n’en nommer que quelques-unes. L’environnement de bureau n’est pas une place pour les rebelles. Alors, si vous n’aimez pas avoir à suivre beaucoup de règles, pensez-y bien attentivement avant de vous embarquer dans le monde des affaires.

    Êtes-vous confortable à rester assis dans le même endroit pendant de longues périodes? Dans un environnement de bureau, vous avez un poste de travail désigné où vous vous assoyez à tous les jours. Être assis toute la journée peut causer beaucoup de stress pour une personne qui aime bouger et qui éprouve de la difficulté à rester assis pour de longues périodes de temps.

    Préférez-vous passer vos journées à l’intérieur? Pour la plupart des emplois en affaires, vous serez à l’intérieur pour au moins huit heures durant vos jours de travail. Si vous adorez le plein air et préférez être à l’extérieur, ceci peut être un ajustement difficile pour vous.

    Êtes-vous capable de travailler entouré de bruits dérangeants? Croyez-le ou non, travailler dans un bureau peut être très bruyant. Vous risquez d’entendre des imprimantes, des gens qui tapent sur leur clavier, des conversations entre collègues, des personnes qui parlent trop fort sur leur téléphone, des éternuements, des gens qui toussent, des gens qui se fâchent – juste pour en nommer quelques-uns. Et, si vous essayez de vous concentrer, tout ce bruit pourrait vous rendre fou!

    Si après avoir répondu aux questions ci-dessus vous estimez que le monde de l’entreprise ne vous intéresse pas, ce n’est pas la fin de monde. Il y a beaucoup d’avantages qui viennent avec travailler pour une grande entreprise. Par exemple, tout le monde a la possibilité de grimpez l’échelle organisationnelle, et cela peut s’avérer extrêmement gratifiant. Toutefois, de nombreuses carrières dans le domaine des métiers spécialisés offrent des salaires tout aussi élevés que ceux dans le monde de l’entreprise. Vous pouvez également vous établir une bonne carrière en gérant votre propre entreprise. Chaque choix est accompagné de ses propres défis. Ce qui est essentiel est de faire le bon choix pour vous.

     

     

  • Is the Corporate World Right for You?

    Is the Corporate World Right for You?

    You may be asking yourself “What should I do after finishing school?” You can consider a blue collar job in the trades like a plumber, electrician or construction worker. You can open your own business. Or, you can consider a white collar corporate job. Consider all your options- you have tons. There are pros and cons to all paths, but it is up to you to determine what you can and cannot handle.

    When people refer to a corporate job, they mean an office job like an accountant, manager or lawyer. Many graduates aspire to a corporate job because of the high pay and prestige. However, before preparing for a corporate career, you should ask yourself if corporate life is right for you.

    Do you like working set hours? Most corporate jobs start at 8:30 a.m. and end at 4:30 p.m. Unless you have an easy going boss, they won’t take too kindly if you arrive late or leave early every day.

    Do you like dressing up all the time? You may have to wear a business suit especially if you’re a lawyer or manager. Sometimes, you can get away with not wearing a suit, but you still need to dress professionally.

    Do you like privacy? You don’t have any privacy in an office. Everyone can see when you arrive or leave and hear what you say on the phone. Your boss can look over your shoulder and even monitor how you use the phone, internet and computer.

    Do you like to speak your mind? Corporate politics are the unspoken rules on how you behave. If you say the wrong thing or speak badly to the wrong person, you can offend them. And if the offended person has power, they can either fire you or make your work life very miserable.

    Do you like to follow rules? Corporations have a rule for almost everything: your conduct, work hours, attire – just to name a few. The office is not a place for rebels. So if you don’t like a lot of rules, think twice about corporate life.

    Can you sit in the same place all day? In the office, you have a designated place where you sit every single day. Sitting all day can be very stressful if you’re a fidgety person who cannot sit still for a long time.

    Do you like being indoors all the time? For most corporate jobs, you’ll be inside at least eight hours a day. If you’re the outdoorsy type who likes being outside, this may be a hard adjustment for you.

    Can you work with annoying noises around you? Believe or not, offices can be quite noisy. You can hear printers, people tapping away at their computer, other people’s conversations, people talking too loud on the phone, sneezing, coughing, cursing – you name it. And if you’re trying to focus, all this noise can drive you crazy!

    If after answering these questions you feel that corporate life isn’t for you, it’s not the end of the world. There are a lot of upsides to working in a corporate world. Everyone will be able to work their way “up the corporate ladder”, and that can be extremely rewarding. A lot of careers in the trades pay just as well as corporate jobs. You can also do very well running a business. Each choice has its own challenges. The key is to do what’s right for you.

    References:

    Making a Successful Transition from College to Career: Time for a Reality Check http://www.quintcareers.com/college-to-career.html

    Payscale.com – Automobile Mechanic Salary (Canada) http://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Automobile_Mechanic/Hourly_Rate

    The 10 Worst Things About Working In An Open-Office—In Your Words http://www.fastcompany.com/3022456/dialed/the-10-worst-things-about-working-in-an-open-office-in-your-words

    Ask a Manager http://www.askamanager.org/2012/10/i-dont-want-to-sit-in-an-office-all-day.html

  • Career Profile: Team Mascot

    Career Profile: Team Mascot

    If you enjoy sports, you probably know the names of many of the players on your favourite team. You might know some of the coaches, and possibly the cheerleaders. How much do you know about the team’s mascot? Even if you know nothing about the person’s name, you probably know how good the mascot can make you and other fans feel.

    Helping people enjoy a sports event is what team mascots do- they lift your spirits high and encourage team support. They lead people in cheers, do special tricks, or otherwise try to get people excited about the game. Most professional teams in sports like basketball, football, and basketball have official mascots. Some amateur teams might have them, as well as special teams and clubs. Canada also has an Olympic mascot named Komak the Moose.

    If you want to work as a team mascot, you can already start to look for openings. You can check with sports teams to find out about the possibilities for work. Talent agencies can be useful since they often have e-mail lists with job openings.

    No special education is required for becoming a team mascot, but training is helpful. Team mascots might have to dance, jump through burning hoops, or perform all kinds of other athletic tricks. Learning how to do these tricks safely can help keep people from getting hurt. If you have a positive attitude, love sports culture and fun, this is a fun job. Whether the team wins or loses, the mascot’s job is the same.

    Staying healthy and in good shape is extremely important. Mascots might have to spend many hours each week running, lifting weights, and doing other physical training.

    Professional sports teams travel a lot to compete with teams from other regions. Normally, team mascots go along with the teams. For some mascots, this might mean that they are away from home for several months every year. Since most sports are seasonal, they might have a few months of frequent travel, followed by months of no work at all. The salary for mascots can also vary widely. Some mascots receive only about $25,000 per year, but others can be paid $100,000 or even more. In some cases, it can be a part time or fulltime job.

    Creating your mascot trademark is important. Most mascots wear costumes that can be heavy and hot to wear, but they still have to be able to move around and to do whatever will make people notice them. Some mascots might develop special techniques, such as doing somersaults or back flips. Others might use funny gestures or find other ways to draw people into the game. Over time, mascots can also change and develop their style, with the direction of the team’s marketing department.

    Creativity and special skills are important for team mascots. Being able to sew and to alter costumes can be valuable, and other special skills are also useful.

     

     

     

     

  • Career Profile: Animal Trainer

    Career Profile: Animal Trainer

    Have you ever taught a dog to sit up and beg or to roll over? Many people train their pets to do simple tricks like that, but some people do even more complicated tasks. Animal trainers work with dogs, horses, dolphins and other animals, teaching them how to behave or act in a specific way. If you have the patience and the ability to work with animals, an animal trainer might be the right career path for you!

    Becoming an animal trainer takes a lot of time and patience. Animals have minds of their own, and they can sometimes be aggressive and difficult. Since they cannot speak a language we directly understand, they communicate their feelings through actions and expressions. The animals can sometimes bite or scratch, but it is the job of the trainer to teach them to be more calm, happy, and manageable.

    If you have your own pet, you know how much work it can be to take care of all of its needs. Animal trainers might not be responsible for every aspect of caring for the animals, but they often have to do the same things as pet owners. They often have to feed and groom the animals and possibly even contact a veterinarian if something is wrong with them. They have to know the signs of a sick animal and when it is hungry or tired.

    Getting to know individual animals is an important part of being an animal trainer. Some animals might already be very well trained in basic behaviour before they come for special training, but others need to start from the beginning. Old injuries, bad experiences with previous owners, and many other factors might influence how difficult or easy it is to train an animal- domestic or wild. Finding out how to get past these kinds of barriers is one of the most important skills that trainers can learn.

    Trained animals are useful in many different areas. People ride horses for fun or to participate in shows. They make movies with dogs and cats and train seeing-eye dogs to help people with vision problems. All of these animals need someone to train them for the special tasks that they need to do.

    Sometimes, the animal trainers can use help, as well. Working with marine mammals like dolphins usually requires a bachelor’s degree in an area like biology or animal science. However, most animal trainers learn their skills by working with animals, sometimes as an apprentice to another trainer. A high school diploma or the equivalent is usually all the formal training that is necessary, although a certificate might be necessary in some cases.

    In Canada, animal trainers make an average of about $23,000 per year, but some can earn much more than that. Jobs can be hard to find, but people in this field can often work in similar areas such as dog walking and pet care. If you love animals, you might want to consider this career as a possibility for your future. There are plenty of opportunities to add to your animal training expertise. Opening up a business would of course raise your income and allow you to keep learning new ways to train and look after animals of all kinds.

     

    Bibliography:

    Canadian Association of Professional Pet Dog Trainers. “Becoming a Professional Dog Trainer.” http://www.cappdt.ca/public/jpage/1/p/BecomingATrainer/content.do.

    McKay, Dawn Rosenberg. “Animal Trainer: Career Information.” http://careerplanning.about.com/od/occupations/p/animal_trainer.htm.

    Monster.ca. “Animal Trainer: Skills.” http://my.monster.ca/job-profiles/animal-trainer.aspx#Skills.

    Wow Jobs.ca. “Dog Trainer Salary in Canada.” http://www.wowjobs.ca/salary-dog+trainer.

  • Career Profile: Sales Representative

    Career Profile: Sales Representative

    Suppose that you wanted to buy something like a chocolate bar or even a computer. You would probably just go to a store, look at the different types that are available, and then buy one. What about something that isn’t available in stores like a database for library computers? You would need the help of a sales representative.

    We all live in a capitalist based society.Salespeople work in many different fields, such as medical supplies, library programs, and insurance. Some of them might even work with not-for-profit organizations as fundraisers for different projects. Much of the work involves meeting with people or calling them on the telephone to encourage them to buy a specific product or to donate to a project. This work can involve a lot of travel, but some sales representatives might find that they can do their work through e-mail or other electronic means.

    Sales representatives have to be friendly and excel at working with people. It is also useful for a Sales Rep to know how a business is run. Many people in this field study to get a degree in business management or administration, and later they learn about the specific requirements of their jobs. Being flexible and ready to learn can help sales representatives succeed in their work.

    An important characteristic that sales representatives require is self-discipline. Most of the time, people in these jobs work alone or in pairs, visiting various offices or other locations. They need to be able to organize their time well and get from one place to another without being late for appointments.

    Normally, sales representatives work only in certain areas of a city or province. A sales representative might work in parts of Toronto or Vancouver, where there are many people, or in all of northern Manitoba, where the population is low. Some representatives have to travel far away from home for their work, but others can go home every night.

    Trade shows are an important part of a sales representative’s work. These shows happen at convention centres, hotels, and many other places where customers are likely to go. Sales representatives might also spend a lot of time answering their customers’ questions about the product and dealing with any problems that they discover.

    Sales representatives should know their products well and be able to keep up with any new developments that come. Demonstrating the product to customers is an important part of the job, but that requires knowledge. Imagine that you worked for a company that produces vacuum cleaners. You would have to know how the machine works before you could show it to customers.

    Salaries for sales representatives can vary from company to company. The average salary is about $56,000 per year, but earnings can vary between about $33,000 and $86,000. There is also the added factor of commission sales. Commission earnings are usually based on each individual sale. If you are a Real Estate Sales Representative, you may earn thousands more dollars a year, besides the basic salary with your company.

    Working as a sales representative can be very busy and high pressure, but it can be a rewarding career for anyone who likes being with people and working with various products. If that describes you, a career as a sales representative might be a good thing to consider.

    Bibliography:

    Glass Door.com. “Sales Representative Salaries in Canada.” http://www.glassdoor.com/Salaries/canada-sales-representative-salary-SRCH_IL.0,6_IN3_KO7,27.htm.

    Halvorsen, Rob. “Sales Representative Job Description.”

    http://www.salescareersonline.com/articles/article_09082006.html.

    Payscale.com. “Outside Sales Representative Salary (Canada).” http://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Outside_Sales_Representative/Salary.

    Richardson, Melvin. “Sales Rep Job Description.” http://www.ehow.com/facts_5192766_sales-rep-job-description.html.

    Root, George N. “Sales Rep Requirements.” http://www.ehow.com/list_6686272_sales-rep-requirements.html.

    Simply Hired.com. “Sales Representative- Entry Level- Training and Growth Opportunities Available.” http://www.simplyhired.com/job-post/58669.41725

     

  • Career Profile: Journeyman Carpenter

    Career Profile: Journeyman Carpenter

    Carpentry is a broad trade that includes many sub-trades. Carpentry is also a registered apprenticeship trade with internationally recognized certification. In a very general summary, carpentry is building structures or really anything out of wood.

    You can begin your career in this trade by calling your local Carpenter’s Union, going directly through a college course, or by simply applying to a job as a first year apprentice or helper. As the trade carpentry is so broad, usually after the initial training process carpenters specialize in an aspect within carpentry. A few examples may be: concrete form carpenter, finish carpenter, framing carpenter, commercial carpenter (ISM), wood shop carpenter. There are also many more examples of possible specializations within carpentry and each has its’ own hurdles and benefits. Nine time s out of ten, a general contractor comes from a carpentry background due to this wide ranging set of skills and understanding.

    When you are working in this trade you should be prepared for being outside all day in all seasons; generally carpenters are first on construction sites and the elements can be a challenge at times. The job requires you to be physically fit, and you must be able to perform muscle burning tasks for extended periods of time. You will often be asked to work at heights. In this case, a proper fall arrest protection should be used and training should be completed. Carpenters usually start their work day early to beat the hottest part of the day; a normal day will run from 7AM to 5PM or sometimes 6AM to 4-5PM.

    Income can vary depending on geographical region and your specialization within carpentry. For example, currently in Canada, a general carpenter can make between $35,000 and $120,000 per year. At some point in your career you may wish to work for yourself and start a small business; many carpenters do. At this point, income can increase beyond the above mentioned.

    If you are interested in what working in the trades, carpentry is a good place to start because it allows you a wide variety of choices and exposure to specializations and an understanding of construction in general. There is also a great feeling of pride looking at the work you accomplish at the end of the day; the work you complete is often there for many years to come. There are very strong unions to train and protect workers that choose to take up the trade; this has a side benefit of keeping non-union carpenter’s hourly rates within a fair range.

    If you want to keep your body in shape and are not afraid of some hard physical work, perhaps carpentry is a trade that is for you. Construction in Canada is an ever growing industry and as the aging workforce retires, there will be more and more opportunities in the future. If this interests you, grab yourself a hammer and start building your exciting future in the world of carpentry!

  • Career Profile: Drywall Finisher

    Career Profile: Drywall Finisher

    Before there was drywall, entire walls were finished with lathe and plaster; a labor and time intensive process. During WW2 when labour was hard to come by on the home front, they began manufacturing drywall. Drywall, or gypsum board , alleviated the need for using hand powered manual tools to create a smooth, fire resistant, acoustically sealed, and durable wall surface. So plasterers are out a job, right? Wrong. In today’s construction industry a plasterer usually refers to someone who does exterior coatings (stucco, etc.) but it could also refer to what is more commonly known as “tapers” or drywall finishers.

    Being a drywall finisher is like being a magician to other trades within interior construction. Although it technically falls under the trade of ISM (interior System Mechanic) there is no formal training provided in the curriculum. Most people learn the trade by studying under someone who has many years of experience on the job, or through an unofficial apprenticeship. Because of this ambiguous learning and certification process, drywall finishers that produce a quality finished product at a consistently fast pace, are greatly valued.

    The pros of working in this trade include: working inside and in a climate controlled environment (the materials you work with require it); not a tremendous amount of heavy exertion on your body, and because of the lack of quality people in your trade, you will always have work if you commit yourself. The cons are: potential repetitive motion strains, some days are dusty (especially when you are first learning), and it can be difficult to find resources to learn the trade.

    There are many things to consider when entering into any trade. My suggestion is for you to roll up your sleeves and try the ones that interest you until you find the one that feels the best. Unlike many career paths, when you learn this trade you will be trained on the job. That means you can skip the high tuition costs and put some cash into your pocket. In western Canada, a 1st year drywall finisher should bring home no less than $40,000 per year. After 4 years of working, the same person could potentially earn $90,000, and that by no means is a ceiling; many drywall finishers start their own small businesses and can make much more than that.

    Drywall finishing is a trade that requires a strong attention to detail and a determination for quality. It can be a messy job at times, but that’s part of the fun! If you’re interested in a career in drywall finishing, try reaching out to some local contractors and give it a go.

  • Why Not Volunteer this Summer?

    Why Not Volunteer this Summer?

    Summer is here. School is almost done. The question on everyone’s mind: How will you spend your summer? If you are looking to get more out of your summer vacation, consider volunteering! You will learn new skills, gain great experience for work or school, and meet tons of new people. Volunteering is also a great way to learn something new that you’re curious about, but may not be familiar with. You might discover a new passion, or a future career. Deciding where to volunteer is tough. Most towns and cities have many volunteer options, and figuring out the best fit can be the hardest part. A good first step is to think about talents you have, activities you enjoy, or activities you are curious about but have never experienced. Then you can look for related volunteer opportunities. Ask yourself, “Am I interested in…”

    • Plants, Nature, or Gardening? Your local Horticultural Society may run projects such as community flower and vegetable gardens, or planting projects in public spaces.
    • Kids and Sports? Facilities such as the YMCA or Boys & Girls Club, and community youth sport leagues, often need helpers to assist with their programs and activities.
    • Kids and Books? Public libraries offer literacy and activity oriented summer programs for kids and youths, such as games, group story time, or buddy reading.
    • Working with Animals? Local animal shelters often need volunteers to assist with cleaning cages and socializing the animals.
    • Medicine or Working with the Elderly? Many hospitals and nursing homes operate programs for volunteers to visit with patients and residents, and engage them in activities like games, crafts, and exercises.
    • Arts and Culture? Summer is ripe with events and festivals that rely on volunteers, such as outdoor music festivals, artisan and craft fairs, or performance theatre events such as those run by the Canadian Association of Fringe Festivals. Summer is also fan convention season, and many cons, such as FanExpo Canada, have volunteer opportunities for a few hours, all day, or all weekend.
    • Working with your hands? Habitat for Humanity and similar programs in your area are often most active in the summer months, and usually need extra hands when there are projects in progress.
    • Social Services and Non-Profit? Most Canadian cities have food banks, Goodwill and Salvation Army facilities, and a host of other community non-profit companies and programs, all of which rely on volunteers to support their efforts in your community.

    Of course, these are only a few of the options available. Regardless of what type of volunteering you find yourself interested in, the second step is always… Do Your Research! If the event or organization has a website, check to see if their volunteering needs are posted; if not, use the contact information to inquire. Make sure you learn what tasks will be required or assigned to you, if there are any age requirements or restrictions, and how much of a time commitment they will expect from you. Once you decide on your volunteer opportunity, step three is… HAVE FUN!

  • Career Profile: Welder

    Career Profile: Welder

    Welding is a growing trade with many opportunities across both construction and manufacturing industries. In Canada welding is a certified trade with a three year registered apprenticeship.

    With Canada’s oil based economy, welders are in high demand in the western provinces. Some of the highest paid welders in the world work in pipeline construction. Working in pipeline construction as a welder requires you to have your Journeyman certification as well as a B pressure certificate. There are many opportunities when you enter the trade, to partner up with a seasoned welder as a helper to gain experience and hours towards your apprenticeship. Following this career path (pipeline welder) you can expect to make $200,000+ per year. You must have your own tools for this profession, and also your own vehicle to carry them (they can be heavy and road access can be rough). A pipeline welder usually works at remote sites and can spend 30+ days away from home. In this case, temporary accommodations are provided by your employer.

    The construction of buildings now relies greatly on qualified welders. As the future progresses, this will be needed more and more because of fast development growth and the economy. Almost every part of the construction process now requires welding on commercial and even some residential projects, from structure to plumbing. A journeyman welder working for a union plumbing contract can expect to make approximately $100,000 per year plus benefits and pension. Generally, working in building construction, you do not have to work out of town to stay busy.

    Other opportunities in welding can be in manufacturing. Many things, you may notice, are made of metal; all of those items require a welder at some point on the production line.

    A welder must have a steady hand and an attention to detail; some welder’s work is under much scrutiny especially when dealing with high pressure gas or liquids. A pipeline welder’s works is regularly X-rayed to ensure its quality. Hazards of the trade include toxic gases that can be very harmful over prolonged exposure. If you have steady hands, don’t mind hard work and feel welding may be a good fit, join the many welders in Canada for your electrifying future!

     

    Resource:

    https://www.cwa-acs.org/