Rene’s exceptional skill, dedication, and craftsmanship have distinguished him throughout his career. Those who work with him have long recognized the impact he has made in the field. His supervisor, Graham Hynes, and his manager, Ed MacDonald, echo the same sentiment: Rene isn’t just a scaffolder—he’s the embodiment of the craft.
Rene left his hometown of Roddickton, Newfoundland in 1974 to follow his passion for scaffolding work in Ontario. While he briefly explored logging and the oil fields, his heart always brought him back to “the trade that gave my family a good life.”
Today, Rene is recognized across Canada for more than just his skill. His dedication isn’t about the hours he puts in—it’s about shaping the future of the trade. He has mentored hundreds of scaffolders, often personally guiding apprentices through their first steps in the industry. Those who work under him know: if Rene is leading the crew, you’re going to learn, be treated with respect, and, above all—you’re going to be safe.
His leadership is grounded in honesty, integrity, and patience. Supervision regularly entrusts Rene with onboarding and mentoring new apprentices, confident in his ability to instill not just skills, but pride and professionalism. Rene sets the tone for what a safe, positive work culture should be.
Rene’s influence extends well beyond the jobsite. A vocal presence during union activities and negotiations throughout the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, he fiercely advocated for improved conditions, safer camps, and fair treatment for all workers. A champion for diversity in the trades, Rene proudly supports the growing presence of employment equity and celebrates this advancement.
Despite a lifetime of accomplishments, Rene remains deeply humble. During a recent roundtable of his peers, numerous colleagues spoke of the profound impact he’s had—not only on their careers, but on their lives. Seasoned journeyperson Gord Reid credits Rene with saving his career. As a young apprentice disillusioned by negative influences, Gord considered leaving the trade—until Rene stepped in, offering support, guidance, and a reminder of union values. Eleven years later, those words still guide him.
Ask Rene about retirement, and he just smiles. “I never want to retire,” he says—not from the trade, and certainly not from his team. That mindset is more than a testament to his passion—it’s a reflection of the joy and pride he finds in the work, the people, and the culture he’s helped cultivate.
Simply put, Rene Hiscock is more than worthy of this recognition. He is the quiet force whose influence is felt in scaffold yards across the country—a story of dedication, mentorship, leadership, and heart. He’s made us better tradespeople, and better people.
Rene isn’t just a scaffolder – he’s the emodiment of the Craft.
Ed MacDonald | Graham Hynes