Learn a Trade, See the World

Although it may sound like a tired cliché, UC411 knows that the working world really is filled with opportunity. Whether it's working on the ground, under the ground, in the sky or underwater, a career in the trades can take you practically anywhere.

Not convinced? Just ask a tradesperson. "There is no doubt, trades are booming," said Murray Sharfenberg, a trades advocate who promotes skilled trades to Alberta high school students.
"One of the issues which was identified in the mid 90s is that we were having a real shortage of skilled trades people. With the average age of certified journeyman being 48 years old, there weren't enough young people considering trades after high school to meet the needs of industry. This shortage was recognized by the industry which in turn initiated a huge push to increase the awareness of career opportunities in skilled trades to high school students." Many of the Alberta students he advises choose to begin their skilled trades training at Medicine Hat College or Northern Alberta Institute of Technology – Alberta’s two largest apprenticeship training providers.

An electrician, by trade, Scharfenberg has spring-boarded his hands-on knowledge into a career as an educator. He is quick to point out the versatility that a career in the trades provides. "In Alberta, there are over 50 skilled trades. You virtually pick the area you are interested in and it is likely that you will find a skilled trade that relates to it," said Sharfenberg, noting the accessibility to obtain journeyman status in several different trades. "Previous work experience, knowledge and skills can provide you with advanced standing when you crossover to pursue another trades qualification, if the training is related."

Both Sharfenberg and Mike Baron, a technical college welding instructor, admit that, as high school students, they never thought a career in the trades would lead them to their current fortes.

"During the past 20 or so years, since I've been a journeyman welder, I've had the opportunity to work at a lot of different job locations and make a whole lot of contacts," said Baron. "I've met many people who have used their welding certifications to work all over the world in all sorts of situations."

From working overseas in highly volatile environments, to welding underwater on offshore drilling rigs, to welding aircrafts, space shuttles, bridges, roller coasters and skyscrapers, there is always a demand for welders.

"When you look at the whole world, there is a whole lot of metal out there. Naturally, the welding trade has depth and it provides a broad range of opportunities so it can take you wherever you want it to," he said. "Oil is oil, just as water is water and metal is metal. Once you've experienced it here, you can work anywhere."

Both Baron and forestry instructor Ken Scullion agree that determination, perseverance and commitment are key to a successful career in the trades. But consider your decision carefully. For example, in addition to being physically fit, Scullion says that good foresters have to have a 'tough skin'.

"Whether it be working through cold, wind, rain or insects, you've got to be able to maintain the mental fortitude to complete a job under adverse conditions," he said. "A forester's work is satisfying, the pay is not bad and it's a great lifestyle to live. It's such a gratifying feeling to be sitting on a mountain top ridge and to know that you're the only person to have ever been there before."

Since the forestry industry offers an opportunity to work with all of nature's elements, foresters are constantly exposed to unpredictable situations. Not only must foresters be prepared for chilling winter conditions and balmy summer temperatures, but they must also remain on the lookout for dangerous animals and unforeseen hazards. Jumping hundreds of feet from a flying helicopter, repelling raging forest fires, ensuring effective forest management and harvesting, Scullion admits that working in the forestry industry can be filled with "hair raising" experiences.

Baron, who is a motor sports enthusiast, also builds and maintains racecars. His practical technical knowledge, along with his welding expertise has transformed a passionate pastime into an exciting business venture. Although combining nine to five duties with his fast paced racing endeavors can create a hectic schedule, Baron is considering accepting a welding position on a racing team.

"The weekend schedule starts in Texas. I would fly there, work on the car and come back. Two weeks later, I would fly to Toronto for the next race," he said. "The racing team mechanic went from working at an automotive shop to tuning a 2500 horsepower racecar that goes 240 miles per hour. It just goes to show where a trade can take you."

The skilled trades are definitely taking off! Job prospects, working conditions, and wages are better than ever, and the bulk of the skilled trades workforce is still just nearing retirement. Many professionals would love the opportunity to share their expertise with the next generation, so if you are a dedicated person who likes the idea of being in demand and opening up a world of exciting new possibilities, exploring an apprenticeship may be the perfect career move for you. With so many opportunities for thrilling careers in the trades, you might just end up with your dream job!

For a one-stop-shop where you can find what it means to become an apprentice and where you can go to kick-start YOUR skilled trade career, visit our new Apprenticeships page. We’ve done the research for you and divided it by province, so you can spend less time browsing and more time getting on with your life!