Derek’s EMBERS Journey
Derek was referred to EMBERS by WorkBC. Before working at EMBERS, Derek was doing DoorDash after being a stay-at-home dad for eight years.
Derek started as a General Labourer, has been a Traffic Control Person work, and recently passed his Hoist Operator exam! Derek has accomplished a lot in a short time period, making big strides towards his career goals.
We chatted with Derek to learn more about his EMBERS experience and career goals.
How long have you been with EMBERS?
I’ve been with EMBERS for three months and was referred by WorkBC.
What are you currently working as?
Right now I am doing General Labourer work, I have done TCP work and I am hoping to do Hoist work shortly.
What brought you to EMBERS?
I was looking for flexible employment while I was deciding on my career goals and EMBERS seemed like a good place to work while I did that. I am new to the construction industry. Before I Doordashed, I was a stay-at-home father for eight years who was looking for somewhere to make an income. I needed an opportunity to get back into work.
What has your experience been like so far in the construction industry?
It’s tough. I’m enjoying how I get to learn new things every day. Going from site to site keeps me on my toes. It’s hard work, but it’s fulfilling. It’s nice knowing that I’m contributing to building something for people to live in.
How has EMBERS impacted you?
EMBERS has been good to me. They’ve been supplying me with steady work and they’ve trained me for various certifications. The people that work here really care and they’ve been really receptive to my concerns. I feel respected working here.
What goals are you looking forward to in the future?
In the short term, I am looking to put the certifications that EMBERS has helped me acquire into use on construction sites, especially my hoist certification that I just got. In the longer term, I am hoping to get an HVAC apprenticeship.
What advice would you give to others?
EMBERS is a great place to start building a foundation, getting that experience that will be useful in advancing in the construction industry.