New Apprenticeship Graduates Enter Skilled Trades

When Peter Robbins realized he was not qualified for his dream job there for the taking, he knew he it was time to return to school.

The Smiths Cove, Digby Co., resident had been in the skilled trades for more than two decades and was anxious to start a new phase in his career, even though the move seemed daunting. So, Mr. Robbins enrolled in the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship System.

Now, after four years and hundreds of hours of classroom and on-the-job training, he is well on his way to that job as a journeyperson mechanic in the truck and transport trade. He is also this year's winner of the Apprenticeship Award of Excellence.

"Returning to school after being on the job for 20 years was intimidating at first, but once I got into the swing of things, I realized becoming certified was the best decision I could have made for myself and my career," said Mr. Robbins. "Anyone who is thinking about returning to school or taking an apprenticeship, I would say, do it! It really opens doors."

Mr. Robbin's workplace performance earned him the Apprenticeship Award of Excellence. The award recognizes a newly certified journeyperson who has made outstanding contributions to the professional image of the employer, supporting others in the workplace, demonstrating a strong work ethic and being an active member of their community.

"The skill and motivation the apprenticeship system teaches has really helped Peter grow into one of the best journeymen we've seen here in over 40 years," said Geoff Locke, general manager of Fleetline Parts and Service. "Hiring apprentices allows us to mentor and train the next generation of tradespeople, while at the same time molding a future employee.

"It has been a win-win for us, and we are looking forward to watching Peter train the next apprentice that walks through our doors."

Mr. Robbins is one of 138 apprentices who became newly certified journeypersons and received certificates of qualification in the southwestern region of Nova Scotia over the last two years.

The Department of Labour and Workforce Development presented certificates of recognition to newly certified journeypersons at a celebration event in Digby, today, May 30.

"The amount of commitment and hard work these newly certified journeypersons have devoted to their training is admirable," said Margaret MacDonald, deputy minister of the Department of Labour and Workforce Development. "These graduates are going to have very rewarding careers because they took advantage of the training offered through the apprenticeship system in Nova Scotia.

"I am looking forward to the many contributions these men and women will make to the workforce and economy in this province."

The Department of Labour and Workforce Development also presented an award of excellence to an outstanding mentor.

The mentor/coach award of excellence was presented to Joanne Jeddry, a supervisor in the cooking trade from Meteghan, Digby Co.

The award recognizes an employer, supervisor, instructor or other mentor who has served as a role model and demonstrated qualities of superior teaching, enthusiasm for the trade and a strong commitment to the progress of apprentices in their program.

The Department of Labour and Workforce Development's apprenticeship training and skill development division supports the advancement of skilled trades through training opportunities, certification and reinforcement of professional standards.

More information about the apprenticeship system is available at www.nsapprenticeship.ca .