Awards of excellence to two area residents

The Smith’s Cove resident had been in the skilled trades for more than two decades and was anxious to start a new phase in his career, even though the move seemed daunting. So he enrolled in the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship System.

Now, after four years and hundreds of hours of classroom and on-the-job training, he is well on his way to that job as a journeyperson mechanic in the truck and transport trade. He is also this year’s winner of the Apprenticeship Award of Excellence. “Returning to school after being on the job for 20 years was intimidating at first, but once I got into the swing of things, I realized becoming certified was the best decision I could have made for myself and my career,” said Robbins. “Anyone who is thinking about returning to school or taking an apprenticeship, I would say, do it! It really opens doors.”

Robbins’ workplace performance earned him the Apprenticeship Award of Excellence. The award recognizes a newly certified journeyperson who has made outstanding contributions to the professional image of the employer, supporting others in the workplace, demonstrating a strong work ethic and being an active member of their community. “The skill and motivation the apprenticeship system teaches has really helped Peter grow into one of the best journeymen we’ve seen here in over 40 years,” said Geoff Locke, general manager of Fleetline Parts and Service. “Hiring apprentices allows us to mentor and train the next generation of tradespeople, while at the same time molding a future employee. “It has been a win-win for us, and we are looking forward to watching Peter train the next apprentice that walks through our doors.”

Robbins is one of 138 apprentices who became newly certified journeypersons and received certificates of qualification in the southwestern region of Nova Scotia over the last two years.

The Department of Labour and Workforce Development presented certificates of recognition to newly certified journeypersons at a celebration event in Digby on Saturday.

The Department of Labour and Workforce Development also presented the mentor/coach award of excellence to Joanne Jeddry of Meteghan, a supervisor in the cooking trade.

The award recognizes an employer, supervisor, instructor or other mentor who has served as a role model and demonstrated qualities of superior teaching, enthusiasm for the trade and a strong commitment to the progress of apprentices in their program.

The Department of Labour and Workforce Development’s apprenticeship training and skill development division supports the advancement of skilled trades through training opportunities, certification and reinforcement of professional standards.

More information about apprenticeship is available at www.nsapprenticeship.ca .