Safety Leadership*
A critical differentiator, the apprentice’s commitment to safe work practices. Did the apprentice maintain a spotless safety record (no lost-time incidents, etc.)? Have they made active contributions to job-site safety, such as reporting hazards, mentoring colleagues in safety procedures, or developing improved methods for performing tasks safely? Apprentices who perhaps led a safety toolbox talk or took initiative during emergency situations could score highly in this area of assessment.
Technical Excellence*
The apprentice has shown superior trade skills and craftsmanship beyond their years of experience. Evidence may include above-average evaluations in their apprenticeship training courses, exceptional feedback from journeypersons or supervisors on quality of work, and ability to tackle complex maintenance tasks.
Work Ethic & Reliability*
The apprentice should have exemplary attendance, punctuality, and dedication. Supervisors’ testimonies might
highlight the individual’s willingness to take on responsibility, overtime, or challenging assignments. GPMC/NMC
values “professionalism” on maintenance jobs; thus, an award-winning apprentice will be one who consistently
demonstrates professionalism, reliability, honesty, and accountability that exceeds expectations for their
experience level.
Learning Aptitude & Initiative*
An apprentice who is not just doing the minimum but actively seeking to learn and grow. This could be indicated
by achieving high marks in technical training or completing additional certifications and courses beyond
minimum requirements. It may also be shown by their problem-solving ability on the job and eagerness to
understand the broader maintenance processes.
Teamwork & Leadership Potential*
Criteria here include interpersonal skills, mentorship of fellow apprentices or new hires, and the respect they
earn from crew members. An apprentice who perhaps took on a role as a crew lead on a smaller task, or who is
known for helping others and boosting team morale, would fulfill this aspect. Given that unionized maintenance
work is a team effort between trades and employers, being a team player is essential.
Endorsements & Achievements*
Notable achievements (e.g., awards in skills competitions, such as a provincial Skills Canada medal;
community involvement like volunteering for trade-related outreach; or overcoming significant challenges to
succeed in the trade). Strong letters of endorsement from supervisors, journeyperson mentors, or instructors.
An apprenticeship instructor might attest that the candidate is the top performer in their class, or a project
manager might credit the apprentice with playing a key role in a successful plant turnaround job.
Quotes*
Please provide 2-3 quotes from Supervisor(s) or team member(s) regarding the nominee’s outstanding contributions, achievements, or qualities. Personal insights are useful in the selection process and may be utilized in promotional or marketing materials.