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Category: Trades

  • Bridging the Gap: Women in Skilled Trades

    Bridging the Gap: Women in Skilled Trades

    A documentary by Elizabeth Smith, in association with Rogers TV

    In this awesome documentary, we get to see hardworking, dedicated women working in the trades industry of Canada. It is a helpful summary of women that have made extraordinary leaps in the trades industry, building a great reputation for excellence, accuracy and attitude. The 23 minute documentary goes over the things you have to do, have or acquire in order to become a trades-woman. It sheds a very positive light on women and their future in the trades, and what kind of obstacles you may have to overcome in order to reach your goals. Being a trades-woman is not only a good vocation, but a really great way to make a living, financially.

    Presently, the video states that only 4% of people in the trades are women. An interesting and challenging trade for women is high pressure welding and fitting. In the documentary, you will meet the first woman to work on the pipeline in Canada, Courtney Chard. As it stands, male pipeline fitters make up 99.1% of the trade, where women make up .9%. These numbers can rise if we all learn more about the opportunities available, and “take gender out of the equation”. Courtney presses that if you like hard work and an honest, decent pay check, you can do it. You will face challenges with other male workers, but if you can brush those trivial things off, you will do well.

    You will also meet Lynn Mackinlay, a certified Red Seal Cabinet Maker from Nova Scotia. She presses that if you have an understanding of the oppression issues that women face in the trades, you will be able to accept any challenges faced. Lynn says that it is often a cultural and systemic issue when it comes to women working in the trades, and we need to look past it. This is a strange stigma, because women have been literally working in the trades since the 40s during the war.

    So, check out this Rogers documentary and learn all you can about working in the trades- they’re waiting for you!

    http://rogerstv.com/page.aspx?lid=237&rid=73&gid=220812

     

  • Career Profile: Micro-Electronics Manufacturer

    Career Profile: Micro-Electronics Manufacturer

    Imagine working with something so small that you can barely see it. How would you ever manage to do anything with it? Micro-electronics manufacturers work with equipment to produce very small parts of machines like computers or televisions. Working as a micro-electronics manufacturer is a good job for anyone who likes to work with blueprints, diagrams, and machines to produce some of the world’s tiniest products.

    Suppose that you wanted to make a model airplane or some jewellery from a kit. Would you be able to follow the directions? Working as a micro-electronics manufacturer involves the ability to read and understand blueprints and other instructions to be able to make sure that the machines for making electronics are working properly. Very little of this work is done by hand, but manufacturers need to know how to run the machines that do the actual labour.

    The first step in working with these machines is to know as much as possible about them. Getting a job as a micro-electronics manufacturer usually involves an apprenticeship program at a college. Courses might be in a classroom or online, but they normally involve some practical work in addition to theory. One of the most important things that apprentices learn is problem-solving.

    If something goes wrong with a machine or if it was set wrong, micro-electronics manufacturers need to be able to identify the problem and be able to fix it. Courses in an apprenticeship program are likely to include techniques for interpreting diagrams, setting up and operating machinery, and cleaning up the equipment after a manufacturing run. Students might also be able to specialize in certain types of products or techniques in manufacturing.

    Besides learning about the specific techniques for their work, students also learn about general topics like health and safety or environmental concerns. These topics are important for learning about the different factors that might affect the industry.

    Suppose that you discovered that a certain chemical used in the manufacturing process was dangerous. You would have to be very careful with it, but you might decide to find a different chemical to use instead. Knowing about the dangers and benefits of different parts of the manufacturing process can help you make good decisions about how to do your job. In a good apprenticeship program, students learn about the many factors that make a difference in their jobs.

    Finding work as a micro-electronics manufacturer depends on location and level of skill. Big cities might be good places to start, but sometimes small towns have factories or workshops with the right equipment for this trade. Specializing in a particular type of electronics can also help people in this field find work. Generally, salaries for micro-electronics manufacturers range between about $30,600 and $66,500, although pay depends on the employer and the amount of experience an employee has.

    We all use electronics in our daily lives, and becoming a manufacturer in this area may be a good career choice for you, and everyone that uses technology on a daily basis.

    Bibliography:

    Algonquin College. “Microelectronics Manufacturer Apprenticeship.” http://www.algonquincollege.com/sat/program/microelectronics-manufacturer/

    Apprentice Search. “What Does a Microelectronics Manufacturer Do?” http://www.apprenticesearch.com/AboutTrades/GetTradeDetails?tradeId=117&TradeName=microelectronics-manufacturer.

    Payscale Canada. “Electronics Technician Salary (Canada).” http://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Job=Electronics_Technician/Hourly_Rate.

    Wikipedia. Org. “Microelectronics.” https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microelectronics.

  • Career Profile: Computer Technician

    Today, society has become more dependent on technology than ever. Computers like desktop PCs and laptops play an essential role in our daily lives, from communicating with e-mail to reading the news feeds and self-advertising through social media networks. All of these require a computer of some sort. Computer technicians are capable of building, repairing and maintaining all of these systems.

    Typically, computer technicians work in an office environment, but can also have the privilege of working at home. Their duties range from repairing computers by means of adding new components to a system, or repair internal errors. They can work on the road and take service calls on a regular basis. Their area of expertise expands beyond desktop PCs and laptops. They can work with printers, projectors, tablets cell phones and even maintaining websites.[1]

    Colleges, such as Humber offer an extensive computer technician course that includes everything from network security to electrical circuits.[2] Many employers require technicians to have an A+ certification administered by CompTIA. This is a basic certificate that shows you are able work confidently and effectively with computers and their accessories. The certification can be any many local colleges; most offer a prep course prior to taking the actual exam.[3]

    Cisco, a leading manufacturer in computer networking equipment has a certification process. These courses educate users on how to install and maintain their equipment and give them general knowledge of networking procedures. Both of these certifications make a great asset for potential employees looking to get into the computer technician field.[4]

    Computer technicians must have excellent problem solving skills. Additionally they must be able to communicate effectively with customers. Technicians should be able to detect the root cause and explain to customers how the problem was fixed and how if possible, it can be prevented in the future.[5]

    The average salary for a computer technician is approximately $44,724 a year. However, many individuals in this field must obtain contract work for additional income. Some build websites and install networking equipment. Depending on the scale of the company you work for, either corporate or non-corporate, you can make a very decent living.

    So if your passion is technology and communications, this is the career path for you!

     

    References:

    [1] http://www.humber.ca/program/computer-and-network-support-technician

    [2] https://www.humber.ca/program/computer-and-network-support-technician

    [3] http://certification.comptia.org/getCertified/certifications/a.aspx

    [4] http://www.cisco.com/web/learning/certifications/index.html

    [5] http://www.careerstep.ca/computer-techniian-job-description

  • Women in the Trades, Statistics and Perceptions

    Women in the Trades, Statistics and Perceptions

    When you picture a construction worker, plumber, electrician or pipefitter, what image comes to mind? Most people imagine a burly, middle-aged man, wearing overalls, covered in dirt or grease. Trades jobs have been predominantly dominated by men throughout history. Across Canada women are still under-represented in the industry.

    The Status of Women in Canada factsheet (http://www.swc-cfc.gc.ca/initiatives/wesp-sepf/fs-fi/es-se-eng.html) stated, “In 2014 women represented 47.3 % of the labour force. Women aged 15 years and over were most likely to be employed in sales and service occupations (27.1%).” It also states, “Women continue to have low representation in the skilled trades and other traditionally male dominated professions. For example in 2012, women held just 11.8% of the construction jobs, 19% of forestry, fishing, mining, oil and gas jobs, and 30.5% of agriculture jobs. In 2011 women accounted for only 2% of carpentry apprentices, 1.9% of plumbing apprentices and 1.5% of heavy equipment apprentices.”

    So why are there so few women working in the trades? An article on the website TalentEgg.com (http://talentegg.ca/incubator/2012/03/12/women-working-skilled-trades/) suggests “even in this day and age, women can be discriminated against in the skilled trades workforce. Women are usually in the top 10-15% in their class, but they are almost always among the last 10% to get hired.”

    The Government of Canada Skilled Trades website points out another reason there are fewer people in general working in the industry. It says there is a “negative perception towards skilled trades among youth and their influences, with many believing that these jobs are low paying, involve physical work, are dirty, and are less academically challenging.”

    Though this may be a common perception, it isn’t entirely true. The work may be more physical than an office job, but it can also be rewarding. Imagine being able to drive by a building, knowing you helped construct it. Stats Canada stated on average trades employees make $22.36/hour. Canadianbusiness.com stated in 2014, Electrician and Telecommunications Contractor held the number 10 spot on the Top 10 Best Jobs in Canada, with a median salary of $72,800/ year.

    Many skilled trades’ workers are hard-working individuals. Although a lot of people feel the trades are for students who are less academically inclined; this is also another myth. Trades workers need to have a good academic foundation with knowledge in math, literacy, problem solving and analytical skills. Depending on the type of trade you pursue you could be deciphering complex blueprints on a construction site, operating technical equipment, or installing intricate plumbing systems at an industrial site.

    There are a number of apprenticeship programs geared toward women. You can search online to see what’s available in your area. In Ontario there is a website with information on Women in Skilled Trades and Information Technology: http://www.grants.gov.on.ca/GrantsPortal/en/OntarioGrants/GrantOpportunities/OSAPQA005168.

    Careersintrades.ca (http://www.careersintrades.ca/) has information on how to get started.

    If you think you might be interested in pursuing a career in a skilled trade, it’s always a good idea to talk to someone who currently works in the field. They will be able to explain the ins and outs of the job, tell you what is involved, and what it is really like to work on a job site. They can also give you an idea of job availability and pay. You could also do a work study or internship, which will provide you with the hands on training and experience. This will be a great way to see if you like the job and the work environment, and to decide if the trades are the right field for you.

     

  • Spotlight: ACCESS ‘Your One Stop Shop’ for Aboriginal Apprenticeship

    Spotlight: ACCESS ‘Your One Stop Shop’ for Aboriginal Apprenticeship

    Who? “ACCESS Trades is committed to providing apprentices with the resources and support necessary to successfully complete the full term of their apprenticeship.  Our only goal is to help Aboriginal men and women attain Red Seal or Provincial certification in a trade.”

    How? Join the hundreds of ACCESS Trades apprentices who have found rewarding careers in the trades.

    Check out this link for instructions and process of obtaining your apprenticeship:

    http://accesstrades.accessfutures.com/apprenticeship/

    Training Schedules ( Updates Regularly) :

    http://accesstrades.accessfutures.com/training/

    Types Programs:

    Electrical Foundation, Piping Foundation, Metal Fabrication, Welding Level B, Sheet Metal Foundation, Machinist Foundation.

    Contacts:

    ACCESS Trades Office #109 – 100 Park Royal West Vancouver, BC V7T 1A2 TEL:  604 922-4077 FAX: 604 922-4088

    Helen Boyce Director of Access Trades

    Rob Egan Training & Apprenticeship Counsellor

    Larry Webster Training & Apprenticeship Counsellor Pauline Hanuse Administrative Assistant Donna Anderson Job Coach

    For more information on Aboriginal Employment and Programs, visit the main website at http://www.accessfutures.com/ .

    Via http://accesstrades.accessfutures.com/

  • Career Profile: Concrete Pumping

    Career Profile: Concrete Pumping

    Concrete pumping; what is it? You may have seen those cement trucks dumping cement into trenches and sidewalks. The concrete pump serves a similar purpose, but it is used for more complex situations, such as getting the concrete to the roof of a high rise building.[1] Individuals who operate the pumps are tradesmen.

    Individuals who wish to get into this trade can do so by attending various concrete and stone mason programs. Some are offered by colleges. Conestoga offers a Brick and Stone mason program.[2] These trades are closely related and are both relevant to one another.

    The industry is in high demand for concrete pumpers as structures are always being built and will eventually need repair and occasional maintenance.

    In Ontario the Operating Engineers Institute Ontario offers a concrete operator apprenticeship. Applicants should have a high school diploma and a DZ driver’s license as heavy equipment and trucks are used on a day to day basis.[3] Wages usually start at $19.00 per hour. There are a lot of vacancies for concrete pumping jobs.

    Placements are outdoors in all conditions. Conditions are often rugged with loud noise and a lot of dust. Be expected to problem solve on a daily basis and coordinate movements of objects and people.[4]

    Local 793, the International Union of Operating Engineers looks after heavy equipment operators which include concrete pump operators. They offer benefits as well as on the job protection.

    If you enjoy working with your hands, operating heavy equipment and working in rugged conditions, then this job is for you. It is physically and financially rewarding. Inquire about apprenticeships near you!

    Sources:

    [1] http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/concrete_pumping/

    [2] http://www.conestogac.on.ca/fulltime/0844.jsp#GO-Graduate-Opportunities

    [3] http://www.oetio.com/Concrete_Pump_Apprenticeship_Program_637C.aspx

    [4] http://www.apprenticesearch.com/AboutTrades/GetTradeDetails?tradeId=265

  • Career Profile: CNC Machinist

    Career Profile: CNC Machinist

    Computer Numeric Control, more commonly known as CNC emerged during the 1940s and 50s. In its simplest form, it is the usage of a computer to create and machine a design with machine tools. CNC machines can control lathes, routers, grinders and mills[1]

    The entire process is done through a computer using numeric equations and using the x, y, z axis[2]. Here, the computer can make precise cuts based on what the operator has set. Additionally it can repeat as many cuts as you would like. This makes it easy to duplicate templates than manually machining a replica. It also saves time while limiting the number of potential inaccuracies.

    CNC is widely used by machinists. It is used to manufacture complex templates, fixtures and designs like crown molding. The cost of equipment is very expensive but has dropped since it has become more publicly available.[3]

    CNC is incorporated into the more broad trade of tool and die making. Sheridan college offers a course included CNC programming and mechanical drafting[4]. It prepares students for careers in the machine industry. Students should have good math skills and be excellent with problem solving and reading drafts.

    Typically, CNC machinists make approximately $14-30 per hour. Companies are in demand for CNC machinists as manually machining has been come less common with the emersion of CNC operated equipment. Automotive companies are constantly using CNC machines for productions of their vehicles and vehicle accessories.

    If you enjoy manufacturing and computers and want to be part of a major industry in demand, give CNC machining a shot and see how rewarding this career can be!

    Sources:

    [1] http://www.thomasnet.com/about/cnc-machining-45330503.html

    [2] http://www.technologystudent.com/cam/cnccut1.html

    [3] http://www.mmsonline.com/columns/different-company-types-have-different-cnc-needs

    [4] https://www.sheridancollege.ca/academics/programs-and-courses/mechanical-techniques-tool-and-die-maker.aspx

  • Trades Programs for Women Across Canada

    Trades Programs for Women Across Canada

    Well, I can’t pretend that I don’t know women have it… a little more difficult than men when it comes to pretty much anything. When you’re trying to earn your diploma in the trades it can be even more difficult. But, JPD is here to help women in their respective fields, find programs that are right for them.

    YWCA Toronto offers a lot of great programs for women in the trades. YWCA Toronto offers a 34-week program in partnership with George Brown College. This free training program is for women interested in becoming a residential air conditioning systems, mechanic and gas technician. The programs offer things like better hours, higher pay, and a chance for self-employment. Women 16 and older are eligible to apply.

    There are also programs available for electricians. This particular one is in partnership with Centennial College for a 33-week program. You learn things like job readiness, training in refrigeration and air conditioning, and an 8-week work placement when you’re all done with the program.

    Mohawk College offers programs for women as well, not to mention they include several facts on their web page discussing women’s roles in trades: “Shortages in skilled trades have forced industry to think differently about who they can attract, retain and promote within the skilled trades. This change of view has been able to provide an abundance of opportunities for women who are considering skilled trades careers.”

    Obviously, women’s programs are not just sequestered in Ontario. British Columbia’s Okanagan College Women in Trades Training offers tons of opportunities for women to learn about the trades. They have the chance to learn about plumbing, welding, sheet metal, and automotive, among other things.

    Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives women the opportunity to attend specific sessions for carpentry (repairing holes in and applying sheath to drywall, framing walls), basic tasks in electrical and plumbing trades, and welding (cleaning, cutting tools, learning to weld steel).

    Women Building Futures is another great tool for female students to use as a source of empowerment and information, but also for application deadlines. The articles offered on their site range from Aboriginal women talking about their role in construction and local employers who are working to make a difference for women in the workplace.

    Nova Scotia Advisory Council on The Status of Women provides women with information on lots of programs readily available for them to apply to. Programs like Techsploration, Webgrrls International, and Women in Global Science and Technology are all linked on their main site so female students can look at which ones interest them.

    The time for women to “prove” themselves ended a long time ago. Women are just as valuable as men in any trade and now, it’s easier than ever for women to enter programs and become whatever they want to.

  • Career Profile: Elevator Installer

    Career Profile: Elevator Installer

    Every day, people in tall buildings go up or down in elevators. How often do they think about the people who make it possible to ride to their offices or apartments in comfort, instead of using the stairs? Without the work of elevator installers, skyscrapers and other tall buildings would never be useful for people.

    Elevators are easy for people to use but can be difficult to install. Workers in this field need to understand mathematics and science so that they can make calculations and know the basics of how machines work.

    For example, if elevator installers know the physics behind pulleys and other tools for raising heavy objects, they can have a better understanding of how elevators work. Knowing how much stress the materials can take before they crack is also useful for deciding when to replace parts on the elevator or to reinforce them for extra strength. Courses in metal and wood shop work can give people the background and experience that they need for this work.

    After getting a basic education in mathematics and the sciences, elevator installers normally complete their learning through apprenticeships. In a good apprenticeship, experienced elevator installers help the newcomers to learn their work on the job, by personally showing them the processes.

    Over a period of about four years, apprentices learn how to read blueprints and how to apply physics to their work. They also learn about electricity and the theory of electronics, and when they know the basics, they learn complicated processes such as installing wiring. Many people in this field do repairs as well as installation of elevators, and they have to know how to find and fix problems when elevators are not running well. This part of the job might involve some evening and weekend hours, since breakdowns can happen at any time.

    Besides installing elevators, some people in this trade work with other machines. Escalators, for example, are common in large stores and malls, and they work on many of the same principles as elevators. Some restaurants also have dumbwaiters, which are like small elevators for carrying dishes and food from one floor to another. Elevator installers sometimes work with both of these kinds of machines, which might require special knowledge and skills.

    Wages for elevator installers can vary, depending on where they live and what kinds of skills they have. In Canada, the average hourly rate is $37.00 per hour, but it can start much lower than that. However, with experience and skill, elevator installers can earn a good living.

    Generally, elevator installers should be good with their hands, work well on their own without supervision, and have enough strength and stamina to work with mechanisms that can sometimes be heavy and hard to use. Does that describe you? If so, you might want to consider learning to work as an elevator operator.

    Bibliography:

    Careers.org. “Occupation Profile for Elevator Installers and Repairers.” http://www.careers.org/occupations/47-4021.00/elevator-installers-and-repairers.

    Payscale.com. “Hourly Rate for Industry: Elevator Installation.” http://www.payscale.com/research/CA/Industry=Elevator_Installation/Hourly_Rate

    Salary.com. “Elevator Installer/Repairer Job Description.” http://swz.salary.com/SalaryWizard/Elevator-Installer-Repairer-Job-Description.aspx.

    Salary.com. “Elevator Installer/Repairer Salaries.” http://www1.salary.com/Elevator-Installer-Repairer-salary.html.

     

  • 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 labor 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.