By Minal Abhange
Cameron Farrell always wanted to do something hands-on and different, yet never imagined a career in trades was the way to go. It turns out it was one of his best life decisions!
Born and raised in Burin, Cameron is a CNA alumnus of the Sheet Metal Worker program – an experience that has landed him a rewarding career.
“You could say that sheet metal workers have the best of both worlds. They are craft workers who work in the shops, doing the fine work of laying out, measuring, and cutting sheets of metal. And then they often join construction teams, putting the metal pieces together to make heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems in new buildings.”
Finding his path
As a sheet metal worker, Cameron says a person learns many techniques, such as bending, cutting, shaping and installing sheet metal constructions, while using computers to find the best way to cut material and avoid waste.
“I did extensive research about the jobs in the field, and the program was just a right fit. I knew I would leave with skills, and finding employment right after graduating was a bonus.”
The highlight of the program was being able to show his creative side and practice his craft in the workshop. “The beauty of the program is that it focuses on a variety of aspects of welding, fabrication along with theory techniques to transform sheet metal; providing this enormous freedom to be creative, have a vision for a project and construct it in the workshop.”
Opportunities abound
Cameron says his employer and co-workers are very supportive, share their extensive experience, and lend a hand at every opportunity.
“I like seeing just a simple piece of metal and, in the end, it could be a small piece that we could put in our pocket, or it could be a huge piece you could drive a car in,” he says. “In the field, it’s cool to go into a brand new building and a couple of months later, there’s full duct runs and you can never believe it was empty before.”
He says sheet metal workers can take pride in the fact that their work makes people more comfortable. It also plays an important role in protecting the health of factory workers, removing toxic fumes and other hazards.
“If you enjoy working with your hands, have above average mechanical and math skills, understand three-dimensional associations and like solving problems, then sheet metal is the right trade for you!” he says, should prospective students be interested in the program.
“Being a professional sheet metal worker offers diverse work opportunities in many areas. There are a wide range of employers wanting to hire and help you build a rewarding career and a secure future.”
To know more about CNA’s Sheet Metal Worker program visit: www.cna.nl.ca
