Gerald Manning

About me

I was born/grew up in: Mount Pearl, NL

I now live in: Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada

I completed my training/education at: Carpenters Millwright College – Paradise, Newfoundland

What I do at work

I oversea all the maintenance and repairs of the various buildings owned by the Nunavut government here in Iqaluit. This means I will schedule and assign the maintenance and repairs that are needed to make sure the buildings are functional and safe. I also review the invoices submitted to ensure they correspond with contracts that are in place. Each day I use a lot of basic math (addition/subtraction/multiplication). Some days I have to solve problems that might involve trigonometry depending on the scope of work. We use web based software to track the work, maintenance, invoices, inspections, as well as preventative maintenance that is taking place for allthe Government assets is the Territory. My extensive hands-on knowledge is key to making decisions and prioritizing maintenance and staying within budget. I work as part of a team and our communication can be in person or by email, phone and text. Some of my colleagues speak Inuktitut and French.

My career path is

I expected to be a Carpenter since I was very young. This is because my Grandfather was a Master Boat Builder and Carpenter. I have completed my Red Seal Certification in Carpentry through a 5 year apprenticeship program. There have been many challenges and failures through out my career. But I quickly realized that I have not been the only one to make theses mistakes and the mistakes have helped me to improve my skills and knowledge as a carpenter.

I am motivated by

Friday for all points. LOL. Seriously, working with a good group of trades people and dedicated support staff makes coming to work enjoyable. Also, being paid great wages with the benefits of weekends off, paid leave, and medical coverage is pretty good too.

How I affect peoples’ lives

Since my work deals with maintaining other people’s work places it helps them enjoy their work and focus more knowing they are in a safe and comfortable building that is hazard free.

Outside of work I

Family time. I like to hunt, fish, ride snowmobile in the winter and go boating in the summer. I also volunteer with Skills Canada Nunavut. I also volunteer my time helping build houses with Iqaluit Habitat for Humanity.

My advice to others

Stick with it and don’t quit. The trades and technology area provide a rewarding career. It also provides you with the opportunity to build something that possibly no one else has done.