Surviving Apprenticeship in the Skilled Trades Industry!

Sparky Life

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Welcome to The Sparky Life Podcast, where we celebrate careers in skilled trades with your host, Lia Lamela.
This episode is brought to you by SupplyHouse.com, your trusted source for reliable inventory, friendly customer service, and fast shipping from coast to coast. Check out SupplyHouse.com today and explore their Trade Masters program, offering free shipping and order discounts. Visit supplyhouse.com/tm to join the Trade Masters program today.
In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Brandi Ferenc, owner and CEO of Fair Trades Toolbox. Brandi is a Red Seal 313a Refrigeration Mechanic/Gas Fitter 1 Journeyperson, an instructor, and a mentor for women in skilled trades and HVAC apprentices. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Brandi has become a powerful advocate for women in skilled trades, winning numerous awards, including the WXN Canada’s Most Powerful Women Top 100 award in 2022 and 2023, and Roger's Women of the Year Award in the skilled trades category. She was also the first female ever to compete at the Ontario Skills Trade Competition in the post-secondary gas fitter category. Today, Brandi shares her journey, insights on mentorship, and how Fair Trades Toolbox is making a difference in the skilled trades industry.

Quotes:

• "Resilience is like an elastic band; no matter how far I’m stretched, I always bounce back." – Brandi Ferenc
• "Our industry is craving change right now, and we're the right people in the right place at the right time." – Brandi Ferenc
• "Support is key. Without it, many apprentices might not make it through the program." – Brandi Ferenc

Follow Lia Lamela:

• Website: https://sparkylifesolutionsllc.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sparkylifeoflia/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesparkylifepodcast
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqPJrIaE7fL1uXgfdIcBYlw

Follow Brandi Ferenc:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fair_trades_toolbox/
• Website: Fair Trades Toolbox

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