Shannon Tymosko

About me

I was born/grew up in: Keswick Ontario Canada

I now live in: Milton Ontario Canada

I completed my training/education at:  YWCA Pre-Apprenticeship Program for Women - Electrical - Facilitated through Mohawk College

What I do at work

I am a second year electrical apprentice. As an apprentice, it is my job to learn while I earn. The job site is my classroom, and the assigned tasks are my homework. While at work, it is my job to listen, take direction and ask questions to make sure the job is done correctly and efficiently. The best apprentice is one who can predict the needs of their journeyman and mentor by always being one step ahead.

I spend my days doing a little bit of everything around the shop. Sometimes this means cleaning, organizing and material handling. Other times it means installing switches, receptacles (plugs) and lights. As I progress through my apprenticeships, which is about 5 years, the assigned tasks will get more complex with the growth of my own skills.

One of the things I love most about my job is that I am always learning and being challenged. Each day is different and active. This allows me to get daily exercise that is beneficial to my own health and keeps me in shape. Electrical is career that can take you in so many directions. You can specialize in a certain area, be a business owner, or make what you need to thrive not just survive.

My career path is

Being a woman in the skilled trades was never a dream of mine growing up. I went to school at first to become a Child and Youth Worker. I enjoyed this work but it did not allow for me to thrive on my own. It did help me develop my passion for people, growth, and change. This is what drives me to be a KickAss Ambassador and advocate for the skilled trades. It wasn’t until I was almost 30 that I found enjoyment for working with my hands. This happened when my best friend bought a house and wanted to do some renovation. I believe it is so important to love what you do. I feel it is crucial to introduce and educate our young people to all available career options. This will allow them to discover their own strengths and passions.

I am motivated by

No two projects in the trades are 100% alike. As a result, I get to learn something almost every day I go to work. Because of this, I have developed the courage to try new things, fall down, stand back up, and repeat until success. Confidence is built by competence. It is because of the skilled trades that I have been able to build my confidence. It has also given me independence through money and skills.

How I affect peoples’ lives

Electricity is crucial for the operation of our society. It is a rewarding feeling when you can look at something you built and say “I made that”! It fills me with a sense of pride and accomplishment to be able to help build a better tomorrow with my hands.

Outside of work I

I enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and vacationing. I also play on a dodgeball league and do Zumba with the ladies. I love animals, especially finding them on adventures. My favorite summer activity is floating down the river in a canoe, listening to some music on a hot summer day.

My advice to others

Don't give up. The hardest part can be when you are the most 'green' and looking for a sponsorship. Hard work does pays off!