The Sheet Metal Workers’ Training Centre held its annual apprentice competition November 25 at the Surrey training centre. The return of this contest was fantastic, with 14 apprentices competing across four levels representing multiple contractors, and many sponsors, accounting for over $5,000 worth of prizes.
“Our annual apprenticeship contest is not only a showcase of the skills and abilities of our apprentice members, but a celebration of our union family and the values that we hold,” says SMWTC head instructor, Jake LeBlanc. “It’s also a chance to bond and network with others in our community.”
The contest is open to any member apprentice in any year, and they compete in their respective years. Apprentices competed for seven hours, testing their knowledge in theory, drawing, welding, and building a shop project.
“In my many years of hosting this event, I have watched people grow both academically and interpersonally,” LeBlanc says. “The contest builds confidence, solidifies the values we hold of support and encouragement in our community, and strengthens our belief in one another. Every year, I am not only impressed but humbled by the team spirit our apprentices bring.”
The day officially launched amid a buzz of anticipation and enthusiasm as participants dove into the competition, ready to showcase their talents and skills. Contractors, union workers, and parents were on hand to observe and cheer the participants on while they showcased their skills. Spectators typically show particular interest in the project portion.
The projects are always based on curriculum from each level. This year, first year apprentices completed a riveted aluminum storage box with a hinged, latching lid; second year, an eccentric square to round, duct and spin in connection; third year, mitered duct, mitered square to round and spin in connection; and fourth year a soldered copper bucket.
“Even though it is a contest, most help each other out to complete their projects,” LeBlanc says. “I have even seen a potential winner put aside their own project to help another individual who is struggling to get their work done, perhaps at the cost of a place on the podium for themselves. We should all take a page from that book. A common slogan in our union is ‘Together we can!’ and that is exactly what we do.”
Contest judges included part-time instructors at SMWTCS Sheila Sadler, Local 280 executive board member; Connor Sove, Boston Sheet Metal; and Jake Watters, Ames Metal Fabricators.
Manning the BBQ so everyone stayed fed and energized were Troy Clutchey, acting Local 280 business manager; Dave Sove, Boston Sheet Metal; and Mike Evans, Local 280 executive member.
Congrats to the contest winners:
- Level 1 Winner: Antonio Cerna Rivas • Ames Metal Fabricators 82 Ltd.
- Level 2 Winner: Blair Bertrand • Austin Metal Fabricators LP
- Level 3 Winner: Natasha Hua • Ames Metal Fabricators 82 Ltd.
- Level 4 Winner: Colin Nam • Apollo Sheet Metal Ltd.
Thank you to the event’s generous sponsors:
- Anonymous Local 280 member
- Austin Metal Fabricators
- Boston Sheet Metal
- Empire Machinery
- Lincoln Electric
- Local 280
- SMACNA-BC
- Smith Sheet Metal Works
- Viaduct Sheet Metal ■
