ESTIMATED READING TIME: 3 MINUTES
The skilled trades industry is an important part of our society and economy — trades people touch almost every aspect of our daily lives. They build our homes and our cars. They work in manufacturing, mining, oil and gas. Canada is depends on the skilled trades, they keep our country going.
That said, the skilled trades have gotten a bad reputation, and we aren't sure why. With myths like these spreading, it's no wonder Canada is suffering from a severe skilled trades shortage. And so, over the next few weeks, we are going to be exposing myths about the skilled trades and revealing the truth.
Myth 2: Skilled trades jobs are too inconsistent
Based on past norms, people seem to think that skilled trades jobs are seasonal and inconsistent. It is assumed, especially in Ontario where our winters are long and cold, that if you work in the trades, you will be laid off. But, depending on the trade you pursue, you have nothing to worry about.
The reality
Even though the weather may change, skilled trades workers are always on the go with year-round projects. Although it used to be true that outdoor projects were put on hold from the first snowfall until the frost left the ground, it isn't uncommon to see workers busy during the winter months. Consider the construction of The Outlet Collection at Niagara — during what was one of Niagara's coldest winters in years, labourers were working almost daily to complete the shopping centre by deadline!
Find a 12-month career
To be sure you will have work 12 months a year, consider a career as a gas technician. Licensed gas technicians have no problem finding work year round. It makes sense, doesn't it? After all, with your G3 and G2 certification, you will be licensed to work as a furnace technician, and everyone needs a working furnace in the cold winter months. And once the deep freeze lifts, it's BBQ weather — you can expect to find yourself installing natural gas barbecues in the warmer seasons.
Also, the popularity of gas appliances is on the rise. As a gas appliance repair technician, you will be the hero who comes to the rescue when water heaters, washers, dryers, stoves or fireplaces are malfunctioning. You will be busy year-round
The gateway trade
As we have mentioned in previous blog posts, gas technician is the gateway trade to so many other opportunities. This is a trade with transferable skills. That means your training will provide you with skills that are applicable to more than one trade. That is to say, when you train as a gas technician, you are also learning the skills, practices and safety measure that are integral to other trades, leading to even more career and apprenticeship opportunities.
