New Zealand Apprentices Exploring the Canadian Electrical Industry
The Electrical Joint Training Committee (EJTC) was thrilled to welcome its New Zealand guests for a one-of-a-kind electrical apprenticeship exchange. The four New Zealand apprentices, Mathew Masters, Mathew Cudby, D’Cody Mortensen, and Manaia Roa (ranging from 2nd – 3rd-year apprentices), took part in a three-weeklong exchange where they were immersed in the Canadian electrical industry, learned from the experts, and forged lasting connections.
“Seeing how Canada’s electrical industry operates has opened my eyes. The exchange has enabled me to compare my experiences within the New Zealand electrical industry and evaluate the positive aspects of both industries and where we could learn from each other to improve industry standards.” – Mathew Masters, 3rd year apprentice.
During their stay in BC, the guest apprentices were immersed in the Canadian electrical industry, where they had the opportunity to learn and share knowledge while exchanging best practices and industry tips and tricks between the two countries.
The NZ apprentices were thrilled to explore some of BC’s incredibly memorable landscapes and cities. “The chance to travel abroad was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the memories made are something that I will treasure. Our trip to Whistler, Grouse Mountain, the Suspension Bridge, and Vancouver Island, to name a few of the incredible sites we toured, was incredible,” – Mathew Cudby, 3rd year apprentice.
The EJTC and its partners are grateful and touched to have witnessed the incredible cultural exchange between D’Cody and Manaia, where they showcased the Haka. This ceremonial Māori dance left an indelible mark on all who participated.
“The training facilities and programs in place are second to none, and I loved the incorporation and acknowledgment towards the First Nation people that all institutions showed.” – D’Cody Mortensen, 2nd year apprentice.
“I can’t thank everyone involved enough for giving us this life-changing opportunity, the EJTC, NETCO, ACCESS, and Gtexpro, to name a few. I really enjoyed my time in Canada learning about the different skill sets in the electrical trade, and learning about the difference in cultures was enjoyable.” – Manaia Roa, 2nd year apprentice.
The EJTC extends a heartfelt thanks to Lynn White and Buddy Cardinal from ACCESS (Aboriginal Community Employment Services Society) for welcoming the NZ guests and orchestrating a remarkable cultural exchange between the Indigenous communities of Canada and the Māori culture in NZ.
The EJTC would also like to thank Huw Griffiths and Steve Julian-Fraser from GteXpro, a global trade exchange organization, who helped to bring this incredible trade exchange opportunity to fruition.
Huw Griffiths – GteXpro
“It was fantastic to see many years of hard work come to fruition. Having four apprentices, at varying levels of their journey, engage with so many outstanding trade initiatives here in British Columbia was a fantastic experience. The EJTC, ETCO, and ACCESS should all be commended for providing such holistic opportunities for Matthew, Matthew, Cody, and Manaia. These experiences will positively impact these young men as they advance their careers. It is exciting to think that future trade exchanges like this can and will take place. The positive impacts they can have for all involved are unmeasurable.”
Steve Julian-Fraser – GteXpro
“It was a great honour to be involved in this world-class exchange. We thank the EJTC for hosting us on this incredible journey. The importance of these life-changing experiences can not be underestimated. To all those involved in our itinerary over the four weeks, we are forever grateful for your hospitality. Your willingness to educate us on industry and culture surpassed our wildest imagination. It would be remiss of me not to mention the stunning beauty of your country, which is surpassed by none.”
Written by: Savannah Davis, ClearWater Communications Co.