#HereForApprentices Podcast
Explore the journey through the trades on the #HereForApprentices podcast. Hear success stories, mentor insights, and industry trends. Perfect for students, employers, and anyone curious about hands-on learning. Join us on a journey to career success!
Ask the Experts!
This session features experts from Skilled Trades Ontario, Georgian College, and local school boards discussing pathways into apprenticeships, including high school programs, college options, and direct entry. Learn about the steps, challenges, and benefits of each route to a successful career in trades.
Listen Here
Conversation with Dan Clements – Part 2
In this conversation, Dan Clements, an apprenticeship advisor with Skilled Trades Ontario, provides an in-depth overview of the organization, its role in supporting apprentices, and the misconceptions surrounding skilled trades. He discusses the importance of apprenticeship advisors, the challenges faced by apprentices, and the support available for culinary apprentices. The conversation highlights the future of skilled trades in Ontario and the investments being made to enhance apprenticeship programs.
Listen Here
Conversation with Dan Clements – Part 1
In this episode, Mat Boisselle speaks with Dan Clements, an apprenticeship advisor and journeyman chef, about his journey in the culinary world. They discuss the challenges and rewards of working in kitchens, the importance of mentorship, and the distinction between being a cook and a chef. Dan shares insights on the realities of kitchen life, the significance of education and apprenticeship, and offers advice for aspiring chefs.
Listen Here
On Location for the Day of the Girl
On October 10th, 2025, Mat went to the Georgian College Campus for the International Day of the Girl event, being put on by Skills Ontario. Mat had a chance to speak with the organizers, students, and exhibitors from the area!
Listen Here
Conversation with Rachel Rock (Welder)
In this episode of “Here for Apprentices,” host Mat Boisselle chats with Rachel Rock, a welder and fitter who took a unique path into the trades. Rachel shares her journey from being inspired by her father’s metal art to pursuing a college program in welding. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of being a woman in a male-dominated field, the skills she gained through education, and the real-world experiences that shaped her career. Tune in to hear Rachel’s advice for women considering a career in trades and her insights on the value of alternative educational routes.
Listen Here
Second Conversation with Jamie McMillan – Part 2
In this conversation, Jamie McMillan discusses the significance of journeyman status in skilled trades, the importance of psychological safety in workplaces, and strategies for employers to recruit diverse candidates. She emphasizes the need for apprentices to be proactive in their job search and suggests exploring various trades, especially in high-demand areas like HVAC. The discussion also highlights the excitement and opportunities presented by skills competitions, likening them to the Olympics for trades. Jamie shares her contact information for those interested in learning more about her work and the skilled trades.
Listen Here
Second Conversation with Jamie McMillan – Part 1
In this episode, Mat Boisselle speaks with Jamie McMillan, founder of Kickass Careers, about the importance of promoting skilled trades to the next generation. They discuss the challenges faced in education and apprenticeship opportunities, the need for more skilled trades professionals, and the role of organizations like Skills Ontario in bridging the gap. Jamie shares her experiences and insights on how to navigate the path to a successful career in the trades, emphasizing the importance of hands-on education and persistence in seeking apprenticeship opportunities.
Listen Here
Conversation with Tyler Cozart
Tyler Cozart, owner of Cozart Heating and Air Conditioning, shares his journey in the trades and the importance of obtaining a Red Seal certification. He also discusses the challenges and rewards of starting his own business and offers advice for both apprentices and journeymen in the industry.
Listen Here
Conversation with Jaime McMillan
Mat interviews Jamie McMillan, founder of kickasscareers.ca as well as a journeyman ironworker & boilermaker. Jamie shares overcoming challenges, gender barriers, neurodiversity support, and the importance of diversity in trades.
Listen Here
Conversation with Chris Venditti
Chris Venditti of Fade Mgmt Barbershop joins host Mat Boisselle to discuss the skilled trade of Hair Styling.
Listen Here
Conversation with Luke McKenzie
In this episode, host Mat Boisselle chats with Luke Mackenzie, a recent carpentry program graduate from Georgian College. Luke shares his journey, from woodworking hobbyist to skilled timber frame carpenter. He discusses the importance of finding the right mentor and reflects on his future aspirations, including growing his woodworking venture, Mackenzie Woodworks. Join us for insights and anecdotes from Luke’s apprenticeship experience and his exciting journey ahead in the world of carpentry.
