Gaining Experience

8/13/2012 at 5:58:04 PM

Hello Steve,

I would encourage you to send your resume to companies, even when the experience asked is higher than what you have to offer.

You are also welcome to send us a resume.

We currently don't have a position open, but we can keep your resume on file for future opportunities.

Regards,

Eveline Pinto

Level One Construction

8/13/2012 at 9:37:26 PM

Hey Steve

I agree with the previous posting. You should send resumes to potential employers. I think you may also want to follow through with the union too. The schooling that you will receive from them is second to none and at the end you will have your red seal which can open a lot of opportunities for you later.

Even though you won't be working in the residential sector you'll gain a lot of useful experience that will become an asset later. While you're doing that you can pursue side jobs with people you get to know. You also get great pay, benefits and pension.

That's the route I took. When my apprenticeship was finished I left the union and pursued a career in residential construction.

I hope this is helpful. Best of luck.

Steven Irving

Sheldon Fine Finishes

8/15/2012 at 8:27:21 PM

Hi Steve, Not the easiest industry you have chosen !! However, I cut my teeth in the renovations industry as a carpenters helper, working for fire/flood/emergency restorations company.

These are restoration companies working solely for insurance companies. and they are doing many jobs at any one time.

If you can get on board with such a company, you will be exposed to many trades, but principly carpentry.

it is a great way to learn a lot of stuff, but still a good idea to get the red seal and the ticket. Plenty of big development companies offer sponsorship if you have been working with them for a few years.

Good luck.

Regards,

Hamish Wheatley.