Apprentices rake in kudos
Official notes high number of Hay River recipients for territorial honour
Paul Bickford
Northern News Services
Monday, November 14, 2016
HAY RIVER
A new crop of entrants into the trades was recognized in Hay River on Nov. 4.
The Hay River Apprenticeship and Occupational Awards were handed out at a ceremony at The Ptarmigan Inn.
"We are here to celebrate the successes of the NWT apprenticeship and occupational training programs for the 2015-2016 academic year," said Lionel Painchaud, a career development officer in Hay River with the Department of Education, Culture and Employment.
"And let me tell you it's been quite the year. This year more so than any other year that we can remember Hay River apprentices have captured more awards than they have ever done before."
Fourteen apprentices received 15 awards and two others won special awards.
The apprentices were honoured in their trades and levels when compared to other apprentices across the NWT.
"It is the apprentices' commitment, hard work and perseverance that have earned them the recognition of being the best in their trade," said Painchaud.
"The NWT Apprenticeship Awards are given to apprentices who achieved the highest mark in their level of technical training."
Donald Fisher, a heavy equipment technician with Aurora Ford's Mining Division, won the Karl Meyer Award presented to the top graduating apprentice in the industrial mechanic (millwright) or heavy duty equipment technician trades.
"For the younger folks, my advice is be aware that there are opportunities," said Fisher.
The other special award went to heavy equipment technician Alroy Sanderson, who works at Finning Canada. Sanderson won a Top Interprovincial Award, presented to the apprentice who scored the highest mark in an Interprovincial Red Seal exam.
Mayor Brad Mapes was on hand to congratulate the apprentices and thank the businesses that employ them.
"I believe our community is pretty blessed for all the businesses that are in our town that give the opportunities for all these apprentices to push through," said Mapes.
A message was also read from Education, Culture and Employment Minister Alfred Moses.
Noting that it was Trades and Technology Week, Moses wrote that trades and technology are foundational to the economic success of the NWT.
"However, in any economy, we must ensure we are taking steps to support our Northern residents and ensure that our workforce can access training, education and opportunities," said the minister.
Moses said those who complete apprenticeship programs have better employment outcomes, increased earning potential, and high levels of job satisfaction and security.
