Local 793 Helping Robotics Students Dream Big

Written by Local 793 Staff

Students at Garth Webb Secondary School in Oakville are hard at work putting the finishing touches to their latest engineering marvel ahead of the provincial rounds of the 2024 FIRST Robotics Competition. Local 793 has been a long-time sponsor of the school’s robotics program, which is helping to inspire a new generation of Canadian science and technology leaders and innovators. On February 22, OETIO Director of Training and Apprenticeship and Executive Board member Jeff Hewitt visited the school to meet the students involved in this year’s event. Teams design, program […]

Students at Garth Webb Secondary School in Oakville are hard at work putting the finishing touches to their latest engineering marvel ahead of the provincial rounds of the 2024 FIRST Robotics Competition.

Local 793 has been a long-time sponsor of the school’s robotics program, which is helping to inspire a new generation of Canadian science and technology leaders and innovators. On February 22, OETIO Director of Training and Apprenticeship and Executive Board member Jeff Hewitt visited the school to meet the students involved in this year’s event.

Teams design, program and build a robot, starting with a standard kit of parts and a common set of rules to play in a themed head-to-head challenge. Students also build a brand, develop community partnerships for support, and work to promote STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) in their local community.

High schools from around the world are competing in regional competitions for a chance to earn a coveted spot at the 2024 Championship event in Houston, Texas, from April 17-20.

The Garth Webb team is made up of 50-plus students who work in one of seven disciplines – manufacturing, design, media, business, electrical, drive and programming – under the guidance of Robotics Night School lead teacher, Thomas Douglas.

They have been putting in up to 20 hours a week after school and on Saturdays to ensure their robot is ready to impress when they take part in two regional competitions in March before visiting the International Centre in Mississauga from April 3 to 6 for the provincial qualifier.

With such high costs involved in building the robot, Douglas said attracting sponsors such as Local 793 is crucial to keeping the school’s program running. “We could not do what we do without you, and that’s the bottom line. You have been a pillar of support for us, and we are so grateful to have you as a partner in education,” he said.

Local 793 wishes the Garth Webb robotics team the very best of luck as they attempt to book their place at the championship event in Houston.

Students and staff gather in the fabrication room
OETIO Director of Training and Apprenticeship and Executive Board member Jeff Hewitt (centre) joins some of the students and mentors of Garth Webb Secondary School’s robotics team during a recent visit to the Oakville school, including Robotics Night School lead teacher, Thomas Douglas (right).
Students work on their robot
Students in the manufacturing group hard at work on their robot ahead of the beginning of competition in March.
Explaining how the robot works
A Garth Webb staff member explains the robot’s operation to OETIO Director of Training and Apprenticeship and Executive Board member Jeff Hewitt (right) on his recent visit to the Oakville school.
Students fine tune their robot's design on their computers
Students and mentors fine-tune their robot’s design as feedback is received from other departments. The competition helps foster key skills, including teamwork and communication.
Students at work in the manufacturing department
Garth Webb Secondary School has an array of impressive equipment and tools for students to use, including CNC machines, welding bays and 3D printers.

Members Work on Transmission Line Refurbishment in Sault Ste. Marie

Written by Local 793 Staff

New Local 793 signatory company, Pine Valley Property Development, is hard at work as a subcontractor for Valard on Hydro One’s 115kv transmission line refurbishment near Sault Ste. Marie. Pine Valley operators Nick Kudlac (centre) and Brock Hilderley are pictured onsite with Local 793 Energy Sector Rep Charlie Peters (left) alongside a Link-Belt 210 excavator. The project is part of a major upgrade of transmission lines in the area as industry continues to switch from fossil fuels to electricity to meet emissions targets, including Algoma Steel’s ongoing $703 million project […]

New Local 793 signatory company, Pine Valley Property Development, is hard at work as a subcontractor for Valard on Hydro One’s 115kv transmission line refurbishment near Sault Ste. Marie.

Pine Valley operators Nick Kudlac (centre) and Brock Hilderley are pictured onsite with Local 793 Energy Sector Rep Charlie Peters (left) alongside a Link-Belt 210 excavator.

The project is part of a major upgrade of transmission lines in the area as industry continues to switch from fossil fuels to electricity to meet emissions targets, including Algoma Steel’s ongoing $703 million project to replace its coke-fired blast furnaces with two state-of-the-art electric arc furnaces.

Members with excavator
Local 793 Energy Sector Rep Charlie Peters (left) with Pine Valley Property Development operators Nick Kudlac (centre) and Brock Hilderley.

Income Tax Receipts, T4A’s Available Online Beginning February 28

Written by Local 793 Staff

All income tax receipts representing Union and working dues for the 2023 taxation year, as well as other taxable benefit receipts from OEBAC (T4A’s), will be mailed out to members’ home addresses by Friday, February 23, 2024. Starting Wednesday, February 28, 2024, members can also go online and download or print a copy of their Union tax receipts and/or T4A slips. This can easily be done by going into your member profile on the Union’s website (See step-by-step instructions below). If you did not receive your Union dues tax receipts […]

All income tax receipts representing Union and working dues for the 2023 taxation year, as well as other taxable benefit receipts from OEBAC (T4A’s), will be mailed out to members’ home addresses by Friday, February 23, 2024.

Starting Wednesday, February 28, 2024, members can also go online and download or print a copy of their Union tax receipts and/or T4A slips. This can easily be done by going into your member profile on the Union’s website (See step-by-step instructions below).

If you did not receive your Union dues tax receipts and/or T4A slips in the mail, please contact the OEBAC Member Call Centre at 1-844-793-1919.

She’s Someone’s Mother, Sister, Daughter, Wife

Written by Local 793 Staff

Every year, workers in Ontario are injured or killed as a result of traffic-related incidents while performing work in and around public roadways. While the Regulations for Construction Projects under the Occupational Health and Safety Act require employers to have a traffic protection plan in place to ensure that workers are protected, safe driving in work zones is a shared responsibility. Drivers must do their part by adhering to speed limits, staying alert, and following the guidance of work zone signs. Together, we can ensure the safety of workers and […]

Every year, workers in Ontario are injured or killed as a result of traffic-related incidents while performing work in and around public roadways. While the Regulations for Construction Projects under the Occupational Health and Safety Act require employers to have a traffic protection plan in place to ensure that workers are protected, safe driving in work zones is a shared responsibility.

Drivers must do their part by adhering to speed limits, staying alert, and following the guidance of work zone signs. Together, we can ensure the safety of workers and drivers alike. Everyone deserves to get home safe.

IUOE Local 793 stands as a dedicated advocate for the protection of all workers involved in building and maintaining Ontario. The importance of this mission cannot be overstated, emphasizing that safety is not a matter of chance – it’s a deliberate choice that each person must make.

OETIO Showcasing World-Class Training at Canadian Concrete Expo

Written by Local 793 Staff

The Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario (OETIO) is taking part in the sixth annual Canadian Concrete Expo at the International Centre in Mississauga. The Expo is an opportunity for OETIO to showcase the concrete pump and crane training/apprenticeship program offered at its world-class campus in Oakville. The event features more than 350 exhibiting companies from across Canada, the United States and around the globe and is expected to attract more than 8,000 industry attendees. Seen in the photo are: (Back Row L-R) Dave Viggiani (OETIO Instructor), Mike Chianello (Local […]

The Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario (OETIO) is taking part in the sixth annual Canadian Concrete Expo at the International Centre in Mississauga. The Expo is an opportunity for OETIO to showcase the concrete pump and crane training/apprenticeship program offered at its world-class campus in Oakville.

The event features more than 350 exhibiting companies from across Canada, the United States and around the globe and is expected to attract more than 8,000 industry attendees.

Seen in the photo are:
(Back Row L-R) Dave Viggiani (OETIO Instructor), Mike Chianello (Local 793 Business Representative), Lee Charlebois (Senior IT Specialist), Rick Kerr (OETIO Executive Director and Local 793 Treasurer), Justin O’Neill (Toronto Area Supervisor and Executive Board member), Joao Gregorio (OETIO Training Supervisor) and Jim Gleadall (OETIO Instructor).

(Front Row L-R) Carla St. Louis (OETIO Director of Marketing and Indigenous Affairs), Jenny Wong (OETIO Junior Executive Assistant), Jeff Hewitt (OETIO Director of Training and Apprenticeship and Executive Board member) and Jordan Glendenning (Local 793 Business Representative and Executive Board member).

OETIO is an approved Training Delivery Agent for the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) providing world-class training and apprenticeship in concrete pump, tower crane, and mobile crane since 1982.

Back Row L-R: Dave Viggiani (OETIO Instructor), Mike Chianello (Local 793 Business Representative), Lee Charlebois (Senior IT Specialist), Rick Kerr (OETIO Executive Director and Local 793 Treasurer), Justin O’Neill (Toronto Area Supervisor and Executive Board member), Joao Gregorio (OETIO Training Supervisor) and Jim Gleadall (OETIO Instructor). Front Row L-R: Carla St. Louis (OETIO Director of Marketing and Indigenous Affairs), Jenny Wong (OETIO Junior Executive Assistant), Jeff Hewitt (OETIO Director of Training and Apprenticeship and Executive Board member) and Jordan Glendenning (Local 793 Business Representative and Executive Board member).
Local 793 Business Representative and Executive Board member, Jordan Glendenning, overlooking an industry attendee trying out the simulator.

Local 793 and OETIO Welcome Minister of Labour, Hon. David Piccini

Written by Local 793 Staff

Local 793 Business Manager Mike Gallagher welcomed David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, for a tour of the Union’s world-class training centre in Oakville. It was the MPP’s first visit to the Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario (OETIO) since taking over the ministerial portfolio from Monte McNaughton in September. Business Manager Gallagher, alongside President Dave Turple, OETIO Executive Director Rick Kerr and Director of Training and Apprenticeship, OETIO Oakville, Jeff Hewitt, was on hand to greet the minister. Other invited guests included Oakville MPP Stephen […]

Local 793 Business Manager Mike Gallagher welcomed David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, for a tour of the Union’s world-class training centre in Oakville. It was the MPP’s first visit to the Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario (OETIO) since taking over the ministerial portfolio from Monte McNaughton in September.

Business Manager Gallagher, alongside President Dave Turple, OETIO Executive Director Rick Kerr and Director of Training and Apprenticeship, OETIO Oakville, Jeff Hewitt, was on hand to greet the minister. Other invited guests included Oakville MPP Stephen Crawford, Oakville North-Burlington MPP Effie Triantafilopoulos, Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council of Ontario Business Manager Marc Arsenault and a host of representatives from every area of the construction industry.

Business Manager Gallagher took the opportunity to stress the importance of rigorous training in making jobsites safer across Ontario, while also expressing his gratitude for the provincial government’s ongoing support for the trades.

“Ontario is one of the safest places in the world to operate a crane and that’s because of training and investment in the trades. Our members have put their hands in their own pockets to support training,” Gallagher said.

“Now we are investing another $25 million to build a training centre to increase capacity. We want to make sure that a lack of investment doesn’t slow the economy by not having the Operating Engineers available to do that work in the future.”

Minister Piccini visited the state-of-the-art simulation room, where OETIO lead instructor Alden Paradise guided him on the mobile crane simulator. The minister then spent time chatting with apprentices in the training yard, where he also tried his hand at operating OETIO’s state-of-the-art concrete pump. The concrete pump was purchased in part with funds made available through the provincial government’s Skills Development Fund.

After being shown the railroad crane brought in by Van-Elle Canada for a new training program launching at OETIO Oakville in the spring, the minister addressed the audience at a reception held in the OE Banquet and Conference Centre.

“Mike and the team here are such strong advocates for you all, so thank you for your leadership and that only makes us better public servants,” Minister Piccini said. “Under this premier and this government, we’re building, and we recognize the important role organized labour plays in building a better Ontario.

“I know that we don’t have an infinite money tree, but I do know that every dollar we spend with you in partnership is taxpayer money well spent.

“Supporting you means we can get the Gordie Howe Bridge built and it means we can build our transit up, which communities like mine need so badly. So, I just want to say thank you because we do need you and we need you to keep challenging us as you have been.”

Before departing, the minister was presented with a model Putzmeister concrete pump to mark his first visit to Local 793 and OETIO.

For more information on OETIO and becoming an apprentice, visit oetio.com

Minister uses the Simulator.
Local 793 Business Manager and Stephen Crawford, MPP-Oakville, watch as OETIO Lead Instructor Alden Paradise puts Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development David Piccini through his paces on the mobile crane simulator.
Minister greets apprentice.
Minister of Labour David Piccini (right) took the chance to meet Local 793 apprentices on his visit to OETIO in Oakville.
Minister operates a concrete pump remotely
Hon. David Piccini tries his hand at operating the concrete pump under the watchful eye of OETIO Instructor Jim Gleadall (right).
Gallagher and Piccini
Local 793 Business Manager Mike Gallagher (right) presents Minister of Labour David Piccini with a model concrete pump to mark his visit.
Group in front of machine
Local 793 officers and staff join OETIO apprentices and staff to pose with invited guests in front of the Putzmeister concrete pump.
Minister and Van Elle employee
Hon. David Piccini talked to the team from Van Elle about the railroad tracked crane that recently arrived at OETIO.
Minister with Local 793 officials and fellow MPPs
Local 793 President Dave Turple and Business Manager Mike Gallagher present Minister David Paccini with a model Putzmeister concrete pump alongside special guests Effie Triantafilopoulos, MPP-Oakville North-Burlington, and Stephen Crawford, MPP-Oakville, at the OE Banquet and Conference Centre in Oakville.

Signs Crucial for Maintaining Work Zone Safety

Written by Local 793 Staff

Work zone signs are crucial for maintaining safety in areas where construction or maintenance activities are taking place on or near the road. These signs alert drivers to the presence of a work zone and provide important information, such as speed limits, lane closures, and detour instructions. You have a role to play in keeping workers and yourself safe when you drive through work zones – including slowing down, paying attention, and following signs and instructions. IUOE Local 793 stands as a dedicated advocate for the protection of all workers […]

Work zone signs are crucial for maintaining safety in areas where construction or maintenance activities are taking place on or near the road. These signs alert drivers to the presence of a work zone and provide important information, such as speed limits, lane closures, and detour instructions.

You have a role to play in keeping workers and yourself safe when you drive through work zones – including slowing down, paying attention, and following signs and instructions.

IUOE Local 793 stands as a dedicated advocate for the protection of all workers involved in building and maintaining Ontario. The importance of this mission cannot be overstated, emphasizing that safety is not a matter of chance – it’s a deliberate choice that each person must make.

New Member Bringing the Energy on Hydro One Project

Written by Local 793 Staff

James Cole, Local 793 Energy Sector Business Rep., checked in with new member Sacha David as he worked on the Hydro One 115kv transmission line refurbishment project in Sault Ste. Marie. Brother David, who works for Skagen and Son Forestry, was busy in his CAT 545C Grapple Skidder moving hydro poles on the right of way for main contractor, Valard. The project is part of Hydro One’s push to increase capacity to cope with the expected rise in demand for electricity from industry and communities throughout the east and north-east […]

James Cole, Local 793 Energy Sector Business Rep., checked in with new member Sacha David as he worked on the Hydro One 115kv transmission line refurbishment project in Sault Ste. Marie.

Brother David, who works for Skagen and Son Forestry, was busy in his CAT 545C Grapple Skidder moving hydro poles on the right of way for main contractor, Valard.

The project is part of Hydro One’s push to increase capacity to cope with the expected rise in demand for electricity from industry and communities throughout the east and north-east of Ontario.

Members pose in front of machine.
New member of Local 793 Sacha David (right) poses with Energy Sector Rep James Cole in front of the CAT Grapple Skidder with tire chains installed.