Success... What does it mean to you?
If it means a career: Where you aren't stuck in a cubicle Where you work with your hands and your mind Where you enjoy variety in your daily work Where you contribute to vital services Where you are compensated for your knowledge Where you earn while you learn
...then Skilled Trades may be for you!
The skilled trades are incredibly diverse. There are over 140 government approved apprenticeship programs in such sectors as industry, construction, automotive and service. Tradespersons, both men and women, work hard and earn more than you may think - for instance brick masons average $46,000 a year. Some brick masons make over $100,000 a year. Many tradespersons work in their fields for a few years and then go on to open their own businesses, teach, go into sales or management. That's the reality. Enjoying your work - and having resources to enjoy your time after work - adds up to an exceptional quality of life. And that's what it's all about. Learn more about the skilled trades in our Getting Started in the Skilled Trades. Check out the case studies below of Durham Region men and women who are enjoying successful careers - and it all started with an apprenticeship. Read about the challenges and the joys, and get valuable insight into your next career move. Case Studies General Machinist Apprentice - What motivated an Ontario Scholar, who had always dreamt of working in the music industry, to enter the skilled trades? Read his case study to learn how Keith developed a passion for his trade - and why he enjoys his work. Electrician Apprentice - Tabitha had worked as a legal secretary and as a bartender. Both jobs were fun, but she was looking for something more. Then she found the skilled trades. Automotive Service Technician Apprentice - During his cooperative education placement, Jakob realized he had lots to learn about automotive service. He had serviced his own truck, but found that the professionals at Aldon Transmissions had lots to teach him.
Early Childhood Educator Apprentice - Brandy decided she wanted to take the apprenticeship route where she could learn new approaches and techniques that she could implement on a day to day basis. An apprenticeship that started by returning to school - Out of school for awhile, Saiqa realized she needed to complete Grade 12 before she could make plans for a career. After enrolling at Durham Continuing Education, she found her passion and the path to a successful future. Sheet Metal Contractor - Joe has traveled the path from apprentice to journeyperson to employer, so he can provide valuable insights into several aspects of the skilled trades. Employers and potential apprentices should take note of his advice and learn from his experiences. Tool and Die Maker - Sylvia Keller wasn’t sure what she wanted to do after high school and even though she had the option of attending university, she liked the idea of a more hands on approach that college provided. To check out other profiles of apprentices and skilled trades, visit these sites: http://www.ilc.org/cfmx/CM/Apprenticeship/Trades/cm_profile_list.cfm
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