Michelle, an experienced Industrial Electrician from Cameroon, is on the path to becoming a licensed 442A Industrial Electrician in Ontario.
With over eight years of experience in power generation, Michelle worked at a heavy fuel thermal power plant in Douala, where she was the only woman on the team. Working in a male-dominated field came with challenges, but Michelle proved her skills and determination, earning respect through her hard work and technical expertise.
When she arrived in Ontario, Michelle faced a new challenge — understanding how to get licensed and continue her career. Unfamiliar with the process, she didn’t know where to begin until a friend referred her to JVS Toronto’s START program, funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD). Through START, Michelle received personalized support, technical training, and financial assistance for her Trade Equivalency Assessment, licensing fees, and tools.
A highlight for Michelle was the PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) training, which provided valuable upskilling opportunity relevant to industrial electrical work. Michelle shared that programs like START are critical for newcomers in skilled trades, who often face additional barriers in entering and advancing in the industry. She now feels confident and prepared, with the skills and tools needed to succeed.
Currently preparing for the Red Seal Electrician Exam, Michelle is close to becoming licensed in Ontario and encourages other women in trades to pursue their goals, saying:
If a woman decides and works hard, she can achieve anything.
Michelle highly recommends JVS Toronto’s START program to all newcomers in skilled trades:
Thanks to the START program at JVS Toronto, my dream of continuing my electrical career in Canada is becoming a reality.
Leave a Reply