When Roadian Wilson came to Canada in 2019, he didn't know what a millwright does. But after receiving training at George Brown College and completing an apprenticeship in the trade, he's enjoying a satisfying career and the security of knowing his skills are in high demand.
"This is a program I would recommend for anyone looking for an opportunity to change their life," he said of George Brown's Industrial Mechanic Millwright Pre-Apprenticeship program.
"The program changed my life more than I had expected," he said. "A millwright is one of the most in-demand trades in Canada."
Wilson studied electrical installation in his native Jamaica. When he came to Canada in 2019, he wanted to continue his studies, but he couldn't due to financial constraints. That's when a former teacher recommended skilled trades training at George Brown College. He enrolled in the Industrial Mechanic Millwright Pre-Apprenticeship program, a free program offered by George Brown's Office of External and Community Relations.
"They provided everything for us, which made it very easy," Wilson said. "Transportation was provided (public transit fares), we got work boots and the important tools needed to start as a millwright."
Training that led to an apprenticeship and a full-time position
The Industrial Mechanic Millwright program includes eight weeks of academic upgrading, workplace culture and skilled trades preparation, 15 weeks of practical learning at Casa Loma Campus, and an eight-week placement.
Wilson completed his placement at Samco Machinery. The company then hired him as a field service technician and sponsored him as an apprentice. He was later promoted within the technician department to testing and commissioning, supporting customers in the metal roll forming industry.
With Samco, Wilson travels extensively, primarily across the United States and elsewhere. He recently completed a job in Colombia.
Wilson appreciates the job security the millwright trade provides. "I think I'm on a good track," he said.
"Machines are taking over many people's jobs. As a millwright, you can fix those machines because machines can't fix themselves," he added. "It's more likely your job won't be replaceable."
Programs that change lives
By building relationships with industry and labour partners, government and other organizations, the Office of External and Community Relations at George Brown creates accessible educational opportunities that prepare learners for careers in in-demand fields.
Programs are offered in many areas, including CNC and Precision Machining, Women Transitioning to Trades Employment, Pre-Apprenticeship (millwright), Better Jobs Ontario, and others.
Learn more about programs offered by the Office of External and Community Relations.
"The relationships we build with partners in a range of sectors create important and lasting change for individuals, communities and industries. The Office of External and Community Relations provides opportunities for learners to develop in-demand skills to launch great careers. Our students then contribute to the growth of industries facing acute worker shortages," said Maryanne Small, Manager of Initiatives and Program Planning.
"We are very proud of Roadian Wilson's success. His story highlights what is possible for students who complete our programs."
The Industrial Mechanic Millwright Pre-Apprenticeship program is currently accepting applications for a June 2024 start.
What is an Industrial Mechanic Millwright?
Industrial Mechanic Millwright is a Red Seal Trade. Skills Ontario describes the trade as the following:
“An Industrial Mechanic Millwright works on industrial machinery, mechanical equipment and components, including mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, fuel, lubrication, cooling and exhaust systems, and pumps, fans, tanks, conveyors, presses, generators and pneumatic and hydraulic controls.”
Wilson said he is trained to troubleshoot problems in machines, including fabricating simple machine parts to make repairs. In his current role, he assembles and tests machines before they are shipped to clients and helps to train operators.
