1210212.us16.myftpupload.com Managed WordPress Site

Category: Jobs and Apprenticeships

  • The Pros and Cons of Apprenticeship

    The Pros and Cons of Apprenticeship

    Deciding on an Apprenticeship in the Trades

    Going to college or university isn’t for everyone. You may not be interested in living the student life, or you may prefer working with your hands rather than textbooks.

    Many students decide to go straight into the working world after high school to start their career, and apprenticeships are a great way to do that.

    Apprenticeships let students learn a job while working and earning money.  The experience gained will help you move forward in your career.  But before deciding to pursue an apprenticeship, make sure you do your research so you can make an informed decision by knowing both the pros and cons of working as an apprentice straight out of high school.

    Cons

    While all jobs have some downsides, just as apprenticeships are a different kind of employment, they also have their own specific set of considerations.

    While one of the advantages to apprenticeship is being paid while you learn, you’re not necessarily going to be paid very much.  Minimum wage is common, and you can expect to invest significant time and effort if you want to earn a raise.

    Apprentices, especially when just starting out, may not be acknowledged as a part of the team in the beginning.  This is more likely to come from clients and customers, or professionals from other fields or companies. You will have to work hard to prove yourself and win them over into appreciating your work.

    The relative lack of experience possessed by apprentices means you will likely get the grunt work, boring or repetitive tasks, and messy jobs. But proving you can perform these tasks well will earn you more interesting and challenging work in the future.

    Certain career paths later in life may not be accessible with only an apprenticeship background.  Luckily, a university or college degree is always an option you can pursue later in your career.

    Many social experiences only come with attending a college or university, such as living in a big communal residence, studying with your friends, meeting tons of new people or taking spring break vacations. You will have to decide if you are okay with missing these aspects of young adult life.

    Apprenticeship can be overwhelming at first.  There is a very steep learning curve, with clients, bosses and coworkers all relying on you to perform your work.  Until you learn the basics, this can feel like a daunting task.

    Pros

    Of course, there are many significant advantages to pursuing an apprenticeship as the start to your career.

    Although you start at the bottom, you will get a wide variety of practical experience performing many activities on the job. You will develop a solid grounding in every task, tool and process, which will be the key to your future success.

    Showing your willingness to do the dirty grunt work lets your employer know that you are dedicated and willing to work hard to succeed.  This increases your chances of being hired on permanently when your apprenticeship period is over. It also means you will receive a great reference from your workplace if and when you decide to apply for future jobs.

    Though you may make less than a university or college graduate over the course of your entire career, you will also be starting out earning money immediately after high school, and without being burdened by student debts.  Chances are you will be able to save more money for retirement, afford to buy a house or car, or start a family much sooner and easier than many people who pay for post-secondary education.

    Work in the trades will always be needed.  Tradesmen and tradeswomen build, repair and maintain nearly all the infrastructure our homes, cities and country depend on.

    These are just some basic considerations to think about when deciding on working as an apprentice. As long as you do your research, you can make an informed decision, and get started on a promising career!

    SOURCES:

    https://www.studential.com/university/guides/pros-and-cons-apprenticeships

    https://www.delineo.com/blog/all/pros-cons-apprenticeship-2/

  • Office Life in the Construction World

    Office Life in the Construction World

    My Nonno (Italian for grandfather) arrived in Canada back in the 1950s. Like many Italians of the era looking to better their lives, he found work in construction. However, unlike many of his fellow immigrants, he shifted into the office side of the industry. He partnered with another man and started his own business, which he eventually became the sole owner of. His experience and skills in construction played a huge part in his success, but working in the office demanded additional skills and an understanding of how businesses operate in Canada.

    As a sole-proprietor in Canada, you are considered a business in the eyes of the government. Construction is no less complicated than any other industry; you cannot complete everything on your own and will have to take on employees or other contractors. My Nonno was fortunate in having a bounty of talent that he knew personally, as they came with him from Italy. You will want to ensure that you can similarly depend on the people you work with.

    In the trades industry, there is still administrative and customer relation work that needs to be handled just as in other industries. An office assistant can help in scheduling and maintaining receipts for projects. A great number of supplies must be purchased and managed with care; this requires a focus on details as many construction companies have run into trouble for both ordering too few supplies and ordering too many. Construction is extremely deadline-oriented, and small mistakes that are not caught immediately can lead to large-scale problems very quickly. It is very common to take on subcontractors for projects, and their work has to be scheduled carefully to avoid delays. There are also various permits that must be thoroughly researched and filed before tight deadlines.

    Salesperson skills are also of great importance, as a great deal of office work is needed to manage contracts and put out bids for potential projects. Many organizations, such as condominiums, will put out a request for proposals, or RFPs, and having someone in the office ready to respond to these is essential for the long-term success of a company.

    Although working in an office performing these roles requires strong skills in communication, organization, and time management, educational prerequisites are generally not difficult to meet. When my Nonno was managing his office, a high school diploma was more than enough to land you a job. Nowadays, training programs and associate degrees from a college will provide you with sufficient training in business math and organizing business records that can put you ahead of the competition.

    The trades industry is varied and filled with opportunities for those with manual skills, but it takes teamwork for a company to operate successfully. My Nonno succeeded with natural talent for the manual labour, and from there gained knowledge of the office aspects through experience. Today, many college programs and internships can give you a head start. The industry is filled with opportunities for a variety of skillsets.

    Source: Study.com. Construction Administrative Assistant. http://study.com/articles/Construction_Administrative_Assistant_Job_Description_and_Requirements.html

  • Benefits of Skilled Trade Co-op Programs for Secondary Students

    Benefits of Skilled Trade Co-op Programs for Secondary Students

    Most high schools in Canada offer work experience programs, also known as Co-operative Education or, Co-op.  Students get to spend part of the day in a workplace environment in a career field of their choice.

    These programs are designed to give students the opportunity to apply and develop the skills they have learned in the classroom in a real-life career setting, while learning new skills and gaining valuable work experience.

    Co-op programs are always a great idea, especially if you’re considering a career in the skilled trades.

    Exploring your Options

    To begin with, Co-op offers you a first-hand glimpse into a career or field you might be interested in. During a placement, students are given responsibilities, as well as opportunities to participate in work-based projects.

    It’s a hands-on experience, as well as a surefire way to help you decide if a career is right for you. For example, at a placement in an auto-repair garage, you might learn that you’d be more in sheet-metal working, instead of auto-mechanics.

    The most appealing aspect of all is that you get to work in your chosen field while earning credits toward your high school diploma!

    Life Skills

    The real world experience of a Co-op placement teaches students life skills they will use now and in the future. Some of those skills include:

    Professionalism

    During a work placement, you are treated as an employee. Therefore, you are expected to arrive to your placement on time and dress in a manner that is appropriate for the workplace.

    You are also expected to behave in a matter than shows confidence and respect towards your supervisor(s) and colleagues. Furthermore, you get that same respect back in return when you show a professional attitude.

    Accountability

    As a Co-op student, you are expected to carry out responsibilities like any other employee in the professional workplace.

    A company and/or client will not hire you if they can’t rely on you to fulfill your responsibilities.

    Skilled workers, whether they are self-employed or work for a company, have to be accountable because their livelihood depends on it.

    Multi-tasking:

    While taking Co-op, you learn to juggle school with your work placement, and other commitments (i.e. extra-curricular, part-time job, etc). The ability to multi-task well is not only a skill, it’s a gift.

    Skilled labour industries rely heavily on worker productivity. Co-op students working for instance, on a construction site, in a plant or auto repair shop, learn how to balance and prioritize projects.

    Teamwork

    The skilled trades most often require labourers to work effectively as a team. Think about construction workers on a site, or technicians on a power line.

    Co-op students interested in pursuing a skilled trade get to experience first-hand, the importance of relying on fellow workers to get a job done, while keeping everyone safe.

    Graduation and Beyond

    After graduation, you will likely choose to enroll in a post-secondary program or pursue an apprenticeship. Guess what? That co-op course you took looks great on your application!

    Also, it’s not at all unusual for students to get hired by their Co-op employers; a work placement could eventually turn into a future job.

    Finally, having that Co-op experience also gives students the opportunity to network and build lifelong contacts. These contacts just might lead you to your dream career!

  • Physical and Non-Physical Trades

    Physical and Non-Physical Trades

    The typical image of a career in the trades usually involves lots of physical activity and getting your hands dirty. However, if you’re considering a career in the trades, it’s important to note that not all trades fit this prototype. Though some trades are more physically demanding than others, it is certainly feasible to get involved with a career in the trades in a slightly different work environment.

    Here is a list of typically “physical” trades. These trades involve tasks such as operating machinery, performing assembly or repairs, or working outdoors.

    These trades are often found within sectors such as construction or industry:

    • Masons
    • Welders
    • Carpenters
    • Plumbers
    • Electricians
    • Roofers
    • Floor and drywall technicians
    • Blacksmiths
    • Painters
    • Automotive service technicians
    • Railway technicians
    • Hazardous materials workers

    Here is a list of typically “non-physical” trades. Though these trades certainly incorporate hands-on activity into their work environments, they are not as physically demanding.

    These trades are often found within the services sector:

    • Hair stylists and make-up artists
    • Cooks and bakers
    • Horticultural technicians
    • Tailors and clothing artisans
    • Gem-setters, goldsmiths, and jewelry-makers
    • Micro-electronics manufacturers
    • Draft-spersons
    • Locksmiths
    • Developmental services workers
    • Early childhood education workers
    • Information technology technicians
    • Safety Inspectors
    • Construction Office Administrators and Managers

    Sources:

    http://www.theworkingcentre.org/types-trades/393

  • The Trades: What you need to know

    The Trades: What you need to know

    Are you interested in a career in the trades but don’t know where to begin? Have you ever wondered about the difference between an Apprentice and Journeyperson? What about the terms Red Seal Program, Red Seal Endorsement and RSE? If all this seems confusing, read on to learn more and find out how to prepare for your career.

    What is an Apprentice?
    As an Apprentice, you’re trained to become a Journeyperson through a 1 to 4 year apprenticeship, a post-secondary education program that combines on-the-job and technical training. Approximately 80% of your learning is done on the job, so you need to find an employer who is willing to hire you as an apprentice. The other 20% is through a college or technical training institution.

    Your apprenticeship begins when you register with the apprenticeship authority at your province or territory and sign a Memorandum of Understanding with an employer who is also registered with the apprentice authority.
    Typically, you’re paid 60% of the Journeyperson’s wage rate and the rate increases as you progress through the apprenticeship period until you receive your certification. You may also receive Employment Insurance benefits and federal, provincial or territorial grants.

    What is a Journeyperson?
    Once you satisfy all the requirements of the apprenticeship program, you’re eligible to write the Certificate of Qualification exam, and if successful, you become a certified Journeyperson for your province or territory and receive the wages and benefits associated with that trade.

    As a Journeyperson, you can train and mentor a certified Apprentice, monitor their progress and sign off on whether the apprentice is achieving their key competencies on the job.

    What is the Red Seal Program?
    The Red Seal Program is the national standard of excellence for skilled trades. Its goal is to set common standards in training and certifying tradespersons across Canada.

    You must meet the requirements of your province or territory to attempt the Interprovincial Red Seal exam. The examination determines whether apprentices and experienced tradespersons meet the national standard in a Red Seal trade. Typically, the exam contains 100 to 150 multiple-choice questions and can last up to 4 hours.
    After passing the exam with 70% or higher, you receive a Red Seal Endorsement or RSE on your provincial or territorial Certificate of Qualification. The RSE recognizes the professionalism and the knowledge, skills and experience of tradespeople. With this endorsement, you can practise your trade as a Journeyperson anywhere in Canada, where it is designated, without having to attempt further examination.

    How do I Prepare?
    The first step you should take is to finish high school since the market is very competitive. Take courses related to the trade you’re interested in and participate in an entry-level training program if your high school offers one.

    Need to Learn More?
    Research the trade and speak with potential employers to learn about opportunities and find out what they look for when hiring an apprentice. By taking the steps to prepare, you’re on your way to entering an exciting career.
    ____________
    Giselle Mazurat is a resume writer living in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She also writes technical and business content for government and private companies.

    Bibliography:
    Department of Advanced Education and Skills – Newfoundland & Labrador
    http://www.aes.gov.nl.ca/app/faq/general.html
    Information for Journeypersons
    http://www.red-seal.ca/information/j.4.5rn.2yp.2rs.4ns-eng.html
    Information on the Red Seal Program
    http://www.red-seal.ca/w.2lc.4m.2-eng.html
    Interprovincial Standards
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interprovincial_Standards
    Journeyperson Definition
    http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/81-004-x/def/4153355-eng.htm
    Overview of the Red Seal Examination
    http://www.red-seal.ca/resources/.2x.1ms_.1b.4.5t-eng.html
    Red Seal Designated Trades
    http://www.red-seal.ca/trades/tr.1d.2s_l.3st-eng.html
    Red Seal Endorsement (RSE) Acronym
    http://www.red-seal.ca/about/rs.2_msr-eng.html
    Red Seal Exam Preparation Checklist
    http://www.red-seal.ca/resources/pr.2p-ch.2ckl.3st-eng.html
    What is an Apprenticeship?
    http://tradesecrets.alberta.ca/learn-on-the-job/whats-an-apprenticeship/

  • Career Profile: Chemical Engineer – Plastics Moulds

    Career Profile: Chemical Engineer – Plastics Moulds

    Chemical engineering is a field of engineering that encompasses aspects of the physical sciences such as physics and chemistry, along with applied mathematics and production economics, to design products and processes that change chemicals, raw materials and energy into useful things.

    People working as chemical engineers can participate in the research, design and development of chemical processes and equipment, or they can operate and maintain industrial processing plants for chemical, plastics, pharmaceutical, pulp and paper, or food production.

    One common career for chemical engineers is in the plastic injection moulding manufacturing industry. Plastic injection moulding is a manufacturing process where a melted plastic material is forced into hollow moulds, where it takes the shape of the mould as it cools. This process is used to make many common products including toys, plastic parts, bottle caps, and almost any other plastic product that requires large volumes of parts that are all exactly the same.

    Chemical engineers play many roles in this industry. They can help design the product itself, or work to create the specific type of plastic material that will be injected into a mould. Their knowledge of chemical interactions, chemical processes, and the characteristics of various materials mean that chemical engineers are valuable in ensuring that the product being moulded will have the right properties; for example, that the plastic product is strong enough, can resist temperature changes, or will last a long time.

    To work as a chemical engineer for plastic moulding, you will need a minimum education of a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline. There are also opportunities to specialize in plastics engineering during your undergraduate schooling, or through post-graduate studies. Depending on where you want to work, or how far you want to advance your career, you may also require a master’s degree or even a Ph.D. in chemical, plastics or another related engineering discipline.

    Not all jobs related to plastic moulding will require a degree specifically in chemical engineering, however. In many cases, engineers from the environmental, biochemical or mechanical fields will also pursue this occupation.
    Also, since engineering is a regulated profession in Canada, you may also be required to pass the Professional Engineering (P. Eng.) licensing exam.

    Wages for engineers in this field span from approximately $20-25 per hour at the low end, such as for apprentices, engineers-in-training for their P.Eng. designation, and entry level positions. Compensation can range as high as about $60-80 per hour for experienced positions, or for those people willing to work in more remote areas of the country.

    Sources:

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Injection_moulding
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chemical_engineering
    http://www.jobbank.gc.ca/report-eng.do?area=9219&lang=eng&noc=2134&action=final&ln=n&s=1&source=2&titleKeyword=chemical+process+engineer#report_tabs_container2

  • Career Profile: Baker

    Career Profile: Baker

    For some people, baking is a favourite weekend activity. When they have a few free hours, they go to the kitchen and produce cookies, bread, and buns to last for the next week or two for themselves, their families, and possibly guests. For others, however, baking is a job that gives them the chance to earn a living whilst supplying people with fresh food. If you enjoy baking bread, cakes, and cookies now, why not consider becoming a baker?

    If you bake at home, you might have an idea of what the job is like. It involves measuring and mixing ingredients like flour, sugar, baking soda, and cocoa to make all kinds of breads, cookies, and other foods. Some of them require very exact measurements, but others are more flexible. Bakers learn to work with these different ingredients to find the best recipes. This involves the ability to follow directions but also to be creative. Many bakers develop special recipes that they become known for making, but they also have to be able to adapt to what people want.

    Many people in this trade work in established bakeries, but they might also set up stores on their own. Depending on where they work and how much experience they have, bakers earn between about ten and twenty dollars per hour, but having special skills with particular foods can help. Besides being able to cook, bakers should also know a lot about the equipment that they use and be able to fix small problems if necessary.

    The size of the bakery and other factors can affect what kind of training bakers need. Some bakers might be able to learn all they need to know just by working at a job. An apprenticeship is a good way for many people to learn from experienced bakers while they develop their own skills. Getting a diploma or certificate from a training school can also help prepare bakers for whatever they might need to do, but it is not always necessary.

    If you want to work in a small bakery, you might not need a lot of formal education, but you need to know about many different kinds of baking. In a larger business, you might be able to specialize in a particular type, such as pastry or bread. However, having a wide knowledge is good for whatever you intend to do. There is also baking for a large manufacturer- this might be a place to get your feet wet.

    One of the most difficult parts of being a baker is the hours. Most stores have fresh baking on the shelves every morning, which means that bakers have to be up very early to prepare the food. They might start their days in the middle of the night so that the bread, pies, and cookies are ready by the time customers come in on their way to work.

    Do you like baking? Why not choose this trade for your future?

    Bibliography:

    Indeed.com. “Lead Cook/Baker.” http://ca.indeed.com/cmp/South-Stables-Coffee-House/jobs/Lead-Cook-Baker-07b1061182e39069?sjdu=vQIlM60yK_PwYat7ToXhk6FiWTC_cw5Paj_ZYTy0G5svhJbw6soMSZtKOcrBnV_bPDNZ_3nyNz7P68uFraGVWA.

    Living in Canada. “Baker Salary: Canada.” http://www.livingin-canada.com/salaries-for-bakers-canada.html.

    Monster.ca. “Baker.” http://my.monster.ca/job-profiles/Baker.aspx.

    Payscle.com. “Baker Salary (Canada).” http://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Baker/Hourly_Rate

  • Career Profile: Insulation Installer

    Career Profile: Insulation Installer

    If you live in a place that gets very cold in winter, you probably notice the difference between a thick jacket with good lining and one without any lining at all. That lining is a lot like the insulation in buildings that helps to keep the cold and heat from getting inside. Insulation installers help keep people comfortable by controlling the hot and cold air that can come into buildings.

    People use many different types of materials to insulate jackets, such as the fluffy down from birds, cotton, or special kinds of fabric. The same is true of building insulation. Between the inner and outer walls of buildings, people might put foam, foil, or all kinds of other materials that help insulate buildings from the cold and also from noise, moisture, and anything else that could get into the building.

    Most insulation goes for the outer walls to help keep the cold or the heat out. However, some of it might go between the floors and rooms of apartment buildings to help prevent noise from coming through. Insulation installers need to know how to use the different kinds of materials that work for various purposes so that they can use the best kind and find the best places to put it. Sometimes, they also need to be able to make the insulation themselves, although they might be able to buy it from a factory.

    If you want to become an insulation installer, the first step is to finish high school. No other formal education is necessary for most jobs, but an apprenticeship is a common way of learning about the business. Basic mathematical skills are useful for calculating amounts and measuring spaces inside walls. In some areas of Canada, a license or registration might also be necessary.

    Wages in this trade vary according to experience and location. However, they generally range between $15 and $30 per hour, not including benefits such as dental insurance and holiday pay. Apprentices earn about sixty percent of that amount when they first start out. By the end of their apprenticeship, they usually reach the same rate that other insulation installers receive.

    People who install insulation can work in many different locations, such as schools, government buildings, homes, and hospitals. They might work inside or spend time outside in the cold or heat. Installers sometimes work in very small spaces or on top of buildings. People in this job need a lot of strength to be able to lift and carry heavy weights, possibly up or down stairs. Being able to organize deliveries of materials and to arrange other details can also be important, especially for people who work on their own.

    Do you think that you have the skills and interest to become an insulation installer? For people who enjoy working with their hands and helping with building construction, the job of insulation installer could be ideal.

    Bibliography:

    Career Centre.org. “Building Insulation Installer.” http://careercentre.dtwd.wa.gov.au/occupations/Pages/building-insulation-installer.aspx.

    Careers.org. “Career Occupational Profile for: Insulation Installer.” http://www.careers.org/occupations/25061/insulation-installer.

    Heat and Frost Insulators.ca. “FAQ.” http://www.heatandfrostinsulators.ca/faq.

    Helmets to Hardhats.ca. “International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers.” http://helmetstohardhats.ca/en/insulators.htm

    Neuvoo.ca. “Insulation Installer Jobs | Canada | neuvoo.” http://neuvoo.ca/jobs/insulation-installer/.

    Salary.com. “Insulation Worker Salaries.” http://www1.salary.com/Insulation-Worker-salary.html.

  • Success in the Trades: ITA (Industry Training Authority), British Columbia

    Success in the Trades: ITA (Industry Training Authority), British Columbia

    Want success in the trades? ITA is a source for people in British Columbia who want to get into the trades industry. The ITA provides valuable resources and access to training for those who want to begin apprenticeships, and become successful in the trades.

    Their vision:
    “World class apprenticeship for British Columbians.”

    Their mission:
    “To build the trades that build BC.”

    Encouraging and nurturing women to be successful in the trades is important. ITA has a number of success stories on their website to prove that if you work hard enough and have a passion for what you do, you will succeed:
    http://www.itabc.ca/women-trades/success-stories

    If you are interested in finding out more about how you can obtain an apprenticeship in BC, visit the ITA main website and explore!

    Website:
    http://www.itabc.ca/

  • Careers in Travel

    Careers in Travel

    Are you itching to hop on a plane and end up somewhere completely different? Do you long to learn about other cultures but need a consistent paycheck while you are doing it? There are many jobs that involve travel—such as archaeology, geology and consulting, but we have narrowed down some job ideas for the travel-hungry that are a little more specific.

    English Teacher

    This is one of the best ways to start paying off student loans while getting to travel at the same time. Typically acquired by those who are fresh out of university, teaching English as a second language in different countries around the world typically requires a Bachelor’s degree, strong language and leadership skills, and a commitment of at least one year. This is a fantastic way to ease yourself into the work force while gaining life experience. Many of these teaching jobs take place specifically in China, Korea and Japan.

    Truck Driver

    Truck drivers are absolutely essential to our economy—they transport raw materials and finished goods over land on a deadline. If you decide to follow this route, you will be expected to inspect your vehicle consistently for safety and mechanical issues, and will often also be responsible for sales and customer service if you decide to operate your own business. This constant road-trip job can be lonely, but those who enjoy solitary work thrive and can earn a lot of money.

    Flight Attendant

    Of course the best way to see the world is to always be on a plane! Flight attendants are in charge of the safety and comfort of passengers on flights. While making sure the flight goes safely is their number one priority, they also functions as servers. It is now normal for airlines to employ both women and men, and multilingual flight attendants are in high demand—particularly in Canada, it is quite an asset to speak French. The more wide your range, the more interesting places you will get to go to and higher class flights you will be on!

    Au Pair

    The most glamorous kind of babysitter, au pairs are domestic assistants who travel to other countries to live with a host family. They are responsible for childcare, housework and receive allowances for personal use. This is a great way to travel and see other countries in a financially sound way…rent and living-expenses free.

    Travel Tour Guide

    Often where you get travel tour guide work will depend on your language abilities, although English is a very important one and sometimes all you need depending on the kinds of tourists you deal with. These workers provide information on cultural, historical and contemporary knowledge to tourists while also assisting them. This may involve large groups or private small groups. Typically these jobs will take place at museums or other educational establishments, religious sites or sites of historical importance.

    International Aid Worker (Red Cross)

    Often a very physically and emotionally demanding job, being an international aid worker requires first aid experience. Being emergency response means that you will be on-call and away from home for long periods of time. You must work well as part of a team, work for continuous long periods of time, and thrive in multi-cultural environments. While this is very difficult work, many people believe it to be extremely rewarding. You must be able to integrate well with others’ heritages and beliefs and always respect the country you are in.