Although only recently completed the Heavy Equipment program at OETIO, Joseph Zentena has served a lengthy apprenticeship in the construction industry.
He said, “I found out about OETIO and IUOE 793 from a crane operator I was working with when I was a labourer in high-rise forming.
“I got into the trades right out of high school, and although I did not particularly like the work, it taught me a lot and put me in contact with the right people who helped me to grow and push myself to pursue a Red Seal trade.”
Joseph opted to take the Pre-Apprenticeship program at OETIO before committing to a full apprenticeship.
“I would recommend the apprenticeship course, but I do think the pre-apprenticeship should be taken first to really find out through the work placement if this career is right for you, because it is a whole different animal once you leave OETIO and get out into the industry.”
With his goal of qualifying in a Red Seal trade now in sight, Joseph is grateful for the opportunity to leave his labouring days behind.
“The experience at OETIO has exceeded my expectations. I have learned so much and operated a vast number of machines. I would never have had the opportunity to get that much seat time on so many different pieces of equipment in the field.”