Training and safety are always the top priority.
Darci Spiteri knows she can face any challenge … even during a pandemic. Her in-depth training and the amazing team that supports her guarantee it.
“It’s great to work with a group of people that share your work ethic and team mentality,” says Spiteri, a 1st-year apprentice with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 105. When it comes to working during COVID-19, she has learned how important proper training and oversight is to ensure work is done properly and safely.
Shannon Tymosko has had a similar experience. As a 2nd year apprentice with IBEW Local 105, she feels that “attitude is so important, and a good team can make or break your day.”
The Life of An Apprentice
Exposure to learning experiences is the norm when you are an apprentice.
Steve Fox, Business Manager of Local 105, says the IBEW puts a high priority on training and safety.
“We have always been advocates of high training standards to ensure work is done safely and professionally and that apprentices are given the support they need to successfully compete,” he added. IBEW apprentices have among the highest completion rates in the province and well above non-union sector.
“I learn something new every day,” says Tymosko. She is not only impressed by the knowledge she has gained during her apprenticeship, but also how much her courage and confidence have grown as she tries new things.
Spiteri also loves to learn and to apply new skills. “It is so rewarding when you see yourself grow,” she says.
Education and growth have not slowed due to the virus. Both apprentices share that in response to the pandemic, new protocols have been implemented. These include, but are not limited to, practices such as the completion of COVID-19 screenings, the addition of a dedicated cleaning staff, and limiting the type and number of workers allowed in any given area.
A Team that Works Together
Well-trained teams collaborate and support one another. In the era of COVID-19, this also means keeping each other safe.
“Knowing you can trust your team is essential,” says Tymosko.
Spiteri concurs, “Trusting in my team and my leaders is so important. I can see that it takes everyone adhering to the new restrictions to make an impact.”