Mediaplanet sat down with Jessica Bannister, a Level 4 HVAC apprentice, to discuss her inspiring journey into the skilled trades and the importance of encouraging women to explore careers in this rewarding field.
When did your interest in becoming a skilled trades start?
My dad was a refrigeration apprentice for his dad back in the 1970s, and my younger brother followed my dad’s footsteps by becoming an HVAC tech right after high school. But a career in the skilled trades was never something I even considered until my 30s. I had an opportunity to work for my dad (in his office), so I was around HVAC but didn’t get my hands dirty until I asked to go on some ride-alongs with them, to see what their days were like. Well, I enjoyed being out in the field way more than I ever thought I would and ended up registering officially as an apprentice in British Columbia. That was 5 years ago, and I am currently finishing up my last level of refrigeration school to earn my Red Seal.
What advice do you have for young women considering a career in the skilled trades?
My advice to young women considering a career in the skilled trades is to just give it a try. Even if you’re not sure which trade to go into, even if you’re not sure if you’ll stick with the trades for your whole career. You’ll probably discover how much you enjoy working with your hands, fixing real problems in real scenarios for real people, and you’ll hopefully develop a deeper appreciation for those who build and maintain society. The skilled trades are incredibly rewarding and fulfilling careers.
What empowers you about being a skilled trades worker/your trade?
I find the fact that skilled trades careers are so integral to the infrastructure and success of our modern society, to contribute to that is extremely rewarding and empowering.
How has the knowledge you’ve gained in your trade helped you in a practical way?
Having a skilled trades career has translated to my personal life in ways I didn’t expect. My career has given me actual life skills and the confidence to use them in my everyday life. Since being in the skilled trades, I have repaired several things around my own home, both earning me respect (including self-respect) but also saving me money!!
To learn more, visit hvacjess.com.
