Testimonial provided and written by Alex G.

Around the end of the COVID pandemic, the industry I had worked in for almost 40 years went into a tailspin. Many of the major production houses closed, and lots of colleagues were displaced.

As an older worker suddenly seeking a new career, I began to look toward the trades. I explored colleges and trade schools, but the idea of spending many years in school and taking on debt as an older person seemed undoable. Apprenticeship seemed like the only viable option, but being untrained and uncertified made it feel unlikely that I could get hired.

I learned that IBEW Local 105 offered an electrician and welding program. I looked into the welding program, which focuses on preparing participants for possible CWB SMAW certifications in just eight weeks. I applied through their website and was contacted by Frank Martinelo, the program executive of welding.

Frank was excellent — helpful and realistic. We discussed the possibilities and challenges I might face, and in the end, I was accepted into the program. With the help of Frank and the other instructors, I earned my first certification. We also received First Aid training, WHMIS, and other helpful courses, along with proper PPE. The welding program is a total bootcamp — by the time you finish, you really know your stuff—one of the best courses I’ve ever taken.

One of the best partnerships I encountered was between IBEW and ApprenticeSearch.com. I had no real idea how to find a sponsor or how to focus my search for the type of welding I wanted to master. All candidates are introduced to ApprenticeSearch and invited to join. This is an amazing resource for people starting out in the trades.

My job coach, Alana Mowbray, helped me reshape my resume and cover letter, offered guidance on interviews and job searches, and suggested welding-adjacent possibilities. She always listened to my concerns and sincerely supported me. On a regular basis, I received links to jobs looking for welders and welder apprentices. There were also training opportunities through NORCAT, regular chats, and special events with Skilled Trades Ontario and other trade associations. They even helped with clothing and tools.

I received a link to an apprenticeship at a company I wanted to be part of. With ApprenticeSearch’s support, I got an interview, completed a test, and was hired. I’m now in my three-month trial period at the company, really enjoying it and learning a lot. Both ApprenticeSearch and IBEW have continued their support even after I was hired, and I have no doubt they’ll help me navigate the apprenticeship portions once the probationary period is over.

I truly could not have started a new career without the help of ApprenticeSearch.com. I am very grateful to them for their guidance and for providing the opportunities that helped me get back to work.