Cambridge Bay (Mar 20/06) - If you're building something around Cambridge Bay, chances are you'll get a chance to see for yourself what a great team Andy Herrera and Ivan Uvilluq make.

Wilf Wilcox: Identifying Kitikmeot residents who have the aptitude and interest in taking apprenticeships is key to the continued growth of the region.

Between the two of them, they've got almost 70 years of experience in the electricity field - Herrera having started his Arctic odyssey 40 years ago in Inuvik and the Iglulik-born Uvilluq completing his apprenticeship in 1978.

In Uvilluq's case, even though he's got a lot of experience, he still respects his friend's four decades on the job.

"I'm still learning things from him," he said.

Together the pair has wired housing in Iglulik and Hall Beach before again joining forces with Kitnuna.

This team of electricians also includes a third member, apprentice Albert Ehaloak, who is getting a chance to learn from these two masters.

"We're always interested in finding students with the marks and interest in the trades to arrange an apprenticeship opportunity," said Wilf Wilcox, Kitnuna's vice-president.

Of course all good things must come to an end and that's the case with the Herrera-Uvilluq combo.

"This is going to be my last year in the North," Herrera said. "I've got a lot of good memories, but Cambridge Bay has always been dear to my heart."