APPRENTICE TESTIMONIALS
See what apprentices are saying about Support Ontario Youth…
 
 
 
“I've recently found employment and am in the process of being registered as an apprentice! Thank you so much, SOY, for all the help you have provided me. I love your organization and will recommend you to anyone I know looking to get into the trades."
Kim P.
"I would have never had thought to offer the working interview if it wasn't for chatting with you and a few others from SOY, so thank you for that advice. It worked out great for me."
Anthony S.
"I appreciate all the time and effort you all put into helping me throughout the process!"
Nick V.
Apprenticeship Journeys
Devon P.
Devon P.
Electrical

My journey to becoming a 309A electrician apprentice began during a Pre-Technology course at college.

Initially interested in becoming a millwright, I shifted focus to electrical studies. Today, at 23, I am in my first year of apprenticeship with a great company in the fire alarm industry.

After graduating, I worked in various jobs alongside millwrights, cable networking technicians, and elevator mechanics. The work was often dangerous, including working inside a 153-metre elevator shaft. I faced challenges, including unsafe working conditions and long unpaid commutes, but with the support of Support Ontario Youth, I found a suitable employer.

Glenda Rahn and Greg Dallaway from Support Ontario Youth provided significant support, including advice on finding new employers and answering my questions about the trades. Despite the difficulties due to the COVID-19 lockdown, I eventually found a stable job in fire alarm installation and maintenance. This experience taught me the importance of workplace safety and the variety of opportunities in the electrical field.

Miranda S.
Miranda S.
Plumbing and Welding

At 23, I’ve had great opportunities and supportive co-workers despite facing sexism in the trades.

My skilled trades journey began in grade 11 when I discovered a passion for welding. After graduating, I worked as a welder and later as a plumber’s assistant. Currently, I’m a utility worker with a nuclear components supplier.

I enjoy working with my hands, a skill reflected in my hobbies like crocheting and hydroponic gardening. This hands-on interest led me to plumbing, a second career in the trades. There are similarities between plumbing and welding, especially in the gas industry. Support Ontario Youth has been instrumental in redesigning my resume and providing guidance.

My goal is to find a plumbing apprenticeship. I’ve learned the importance of putting safety first and speaking up about unsafe conditions. Despite challenges like layoffs, I’ve always found work and thrived in the trades, even with ADHD. I advise other women to be confident and not intimidated, as solid work ethic speaks volumes.

Samim H.
Samim H.
Electrical

My journey to becoming an apprentice electrician began after immigrating to Canada from Pakistan in 2017.

Initially considering a career in accounting or IT, I decided the skilled trades made more sense. Now, at 30, I’m a first-year apprentice.

I took courses to ensure my high school diploma was recognized in Canada and explored job opportunities in the trades. ACCES Employment helped me with resume writing, safety training, and connecting with Support Ontario Youth. Support Ontario Youth provided significant assistance, including registering my Training Agreement with the Ministry of Labour and offering valuable advice.

I found my first job through connections with Support Ontario Youth and ACCES, working with an industrial and electrical contracting company. The job provided excellent learning opportunities, including working on commercial projects and adhering to safety standards. My advice to others considering the trades is to set a goal and stay committed, as persistence pays off.

Ian M.
Ian M.
Electrical

I've always wanted to be an electrician. Growing up in Jamaica, I gained experience in electrical work before transitioning to a police corporal.

After 13 years, I returned to my passion for electrical work and attended Sheridan College in Canada on a student visa.

Finding work after graduation was challenging, but persistence paid off. My first job in maintenance and later with a locomotive company provided valuable experience. Support Ontario Youth was a significant help, offering networking opportunities and preparing me for the workplace.

My goal is to master more skills and become a well-rounded electrician. I advise others to choose work they enjoy and stay focused on learning on the job. With dedication, success in the trades is achievable.

Andrew F.
Andrew F.
Electrical Journeyperson

Studying for the Certificate of Qualification (CofQ) exam was challenging, but I focused on reviewing my mistakes and studying hard.

Growing up in Carleton Place, I dreamed of becoming an electrician. Support Ontario Youth helped me through the final stages of my apprenticeship, providing exam preparation and support.

I’m grateful for Support Ontario Youth's assistance, which alleviated a lot of stress. My advice to new apprentices is to be prepared to work hard, take advice from co-workers, and stay committed to learning. Passing the CofQ exam was a significant milestone, and I’m excited about my future in the trade.

Steve W.
Steve W.
Electrical

I came to the trades later in life, in my 40s, with no electrical experience. After a challenging start, I found a sponsor through Kijiji and began my apprenticeship.

Support Ontario Youth provided invaluable support, helping me register with OCOT and offering mentorship.

My new sponsor is a better fit, and with Support Ontario Youth's help, I am on track to complete my apprenticeship and write the Certificate of Qualification (CofQ) exam. Persistence and taking responsibility for my apprenticeship have been key to my success.