Introduction to Millwright – Churchill

Overview 

Training to Employment coordinated a 9-week pre-employment program with the Northern Manitoba Sector Council. The program was delivered by Workplace Education Manitoba and the Millwright Union Local 1443 with support from the Arctic Gateway Group. This was a great opportunity for the Town of Churchill as millwrights will be needed as the port opens up. 

Activities 

(1) February 1 to February 21, 2025  

• Intake  Preparation for the program included scheduling, ordering supplies and ensuring selected participants are ready.  

(2) February 24 – March 7, 2025  

• Module 1 – Job Readiness Training and Essential Skills Upgrades  

Workplace Education Manitoba  

2 weeks of in-person training focusing on Math refreshers.  

10+3 participants completed Module 1.  

(3) March 10 – 14, 2025  

• Module 2 – Safety  

First Aid, Fall Protection and Confined Spaces.  

10+3 participants completed Module 2.  

(4) March 17 – April 25, 2025  

• Module 3 – Introduction to Millwrighting  

Millwright Union Local 1443  

Blend of classroom instruction and hands-on learning.  

10 participants completed Module 3.  

(5) April 25, 2025  

• Project Completion and Graduation  

January 20^th, 24^th 

• WEM LIFT consists of being reliable in the workplace, taking initiative, personal presentation, importance of being present, engaged and on time, why work is important to our sense of self. 

January 27^th-31^st 

• WEM assessments determined students should be upscaling reading and writing for half day and numeracy in afternoon for final week. 

February 4^th -March 12^th 

-Hudbay on Job shadowing for 3 tours. 1 tour consists of 11.5 days. 7 on 7 off. 

-One student resigned in the second last week due to childcare issues. Student had a good work ethic, and the teacher would recommend hiring him. 

Students  

10+3 students were accepted into the program. 10 successfully completed the program. 3 participants were removed from the program due to absenteeism and overall lacking performance.  

Of the 10+3 learners:  

13 were Indigenous  

1 was female  

3 were youth (under the age of 30)  

4 have not completed high school  

4 had been recipients of EIA, 1 had been recipient of EI  

Success Stories: 

The completion rate of 77% is positive. All graduates are believed to have great potential to become Millwright apprentices or have a successful career in another trade-related occupation. Most of the participants are in the process of applying for jobs for the upcoming season at the Port of Churchill. Client Outcomes: 3 clients went back to their employer, 1 client started work with MB Housing Authority, 6 are actively looking for work.