New Apprenticeship Graduates Enter Skilled Trades
The winner of this year's Apprentice Award of Excellence is a strong representative for women in the skilled trades in Nova Scotia.
Dartmouth resident Elizabeth Cummings knew she wanted to work in the electrical trade since she was 18. She was told she likely did not have enough upper body strength to effectively do the job, but if she could hold a broom above her head for three hours, she could enroll in trades school. Elizabeth lasted an hour, and decided that becoming an electrician would be too challenging, physically.
After 20 years in the printing industry, she met a female electrician who encouraged her to enroll in the apprenticeship program and follow her dreams. After four years, and hours of classroom and on-the-job training, Elizabeth may not be able to hold a broom over her head for three hours, but she is a fine construction electrician. She is a certified journeyperson who is described by her colleagues as one of the best in the trade.
"An apprenticeship requires hard work, a thick skin and a strong desire for a challenge," said Ms. Cummings. "If you are willing to do the work, an apprenticeship can provide many great opportunities, top-notch training and a qualification to be extremely proud of. I would recommend an apprenticeship to anyone, female or male, who wants a memorable experience and a fulfilling career."
Ms. Cummings' workplace performance earned her the Apprenticeship Award of Excellence. The award recognizes a newly certified journeyperson who has made outstanding contributions to the industry and their employer, supporting others in the workplace and demonstrating a strong work ethic.
"The skill and technique the apprenticeship system teaches has really helped Elizabeth grow into one of the best construction electricians I've seen in a very long time," said Tom Griffiths, president of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 625. "Elizabeth is now the lead foreperson on her job and is giving back by supervising and training new apprentices. Her great attitude, work ethic and willingness to learn truly is the glue that holds a job and team together.
"There is no doubt in my mind that she will be running a large company some day."
Ms. Cummings is one of 336 apprentices who became certified journeypersons and received certificates of qualification in the northern and central regions of Nova Scotia over the last year.
The Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Board and the Department of Labour and Workforce Development presented certificates of recognition to them at a celebration in Dartmouth, today, Nov. 14.
"Our skilled workforce is a tremendous asset for Nova Scotia," said Labour and Workforce Development Minister Marilyn More. "These new graduates have been trained to a high industry standard and because of their commitment and dedication to their trade, I am confident the opportunities presented to them will be endless.
"I am looking forward to the many contributions these men and women will make to the workforce and economy in this province."
The mentor/coach award of excellence was presented to Jim Corbin an instructor at the Nova Scotia Community College's Leeds Street Campus.
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 .