Abbi’s decision to get into trades was influenced by her grandfather. “He always liked cars and worked in car dealerships. He played a major role in my upbringing and so I always wanted to do everything he was doing.”
“He got me involved in changing car tires and batteries, and something just clicked… I knew this was something I wanted to do.”
As a woman pursuing a career in trades, Abbi’s goal is to break the stereotype that it’s only men that do trades. “I wanted to do something that I felt passionate about and that I’m good at doing. I love working with my hands. I’m really good at thinking ahead, and so I thought that mechanics would be a great career for me. My ultimate goal is to open my own business and employ other female mechanics.”
Abbi was pleased to find that the Auto Service program offers a good balance between classwork and shop work. She recently completed work experience at a local Canadian Tire and has been invited back for their hiring session this June. She is hoping to apprentice there while completing the BCIT five-year school program.
“My time at Canadian Tire was the best work-related job that I have had. They welcomed me with open arms and warm hearts. I learned so much – from thinking of alternative solutions to complex problems to dealing with customers. By the end of my time there, I was doing oil changes like I’ve been doing them since I was born!”
Abbi offers some great advice to others, particularly female students, thinking of a career in the trades. “Don’t let anyone talk you down or question why you’re there. Be who you are. Be confident in yourself and go after what you want.”
Learn more about the Delta School District’s Train in Trades program.
This story has been reproduced with permission from School District 37 (Delta). The original posting can be found here.