Trevor Roote

About me

I was born/grew up in: I was born in Hamilton, ON and grew up on Saugeen First Nation, ON

I now live in: Saugeen First Nation

I completed my training/education at: I completed one year of electrical techniques at Fleming College in Peterborough.  I also went to Georgian College in Owen Sound for an upgrade. From there I applied to Bruce Power and got hired as an intern. 

What I do at work

My key activities during the day are to repair, assemble and maintain the machines and equipment as needed. We do a pre-job brief every morning. Here we go over the tasks for the day. There is a lot of physical work to be done (e.g., torque nuts and bolts, lift heavy items). We assemble the turbines and clean every piece of equipment to make sure it operates correctly. We use a special overhead crane system, torque machines and pull-chains. Sometimes the work we do doesn’t go according to the plans. So, there are times when we have to problem solve and figure out the issue. As a team we always talk things out and brain storm ideas to get the task done. We always work in pairs or more and communicate to make sure everyone is on the same page. We also use radios to communicate with the crane operators when we are lifting equipment. 

My career path is

I didn’t start out wanting to be a mechanical maintainer at Bruce Power. My initial plan was to become an electrician. But, after doing that program for a couple of years I realized it was not for me.  While I was doing the electrical program, I gained knowledge of the mechanical aspects of machinery. Today I am an intern and hoping to get into an apprenticeship. I went back to school to upgrade my knowledge. That was not something I had planned to do either but it was very helpful. I had applied for the shift control technician apprenticeship, but I did not get in. When I first applied for the mechanical maintainer position I did not get it either. But I stayed determined and committed to working here so I never gave up trying. Now I am so glad that I didn’t give up!

I am motivated by

I love everything about this job! I love the people I work with. I love the community that is Bruce Power. These things get me excited for work. I love being a mechanical maintain. It is great working on the gigantic machines that you know are very important to produce the electricity the province needs. I love being a part of something as big as Bruce Power. I have wanted to work for a long time and now I am enjoying every moment of it!

How I affect peoples’ lives

I help repair and maintain all the turbines and mechanical aspects of the Nuclear power equipment. This makes sure the turbines and other machines are running correctly in order to produce the electricity to supply 30% of Ontario’s needs. Maintaining these machines to produce the electricity makes this job fulfilling because you know you are helping families all across the province with their electricity needs. Without our team, the turbines, generators and everything else would eventually break down. 

Outside of work I

I love being out in nature, taking my dog for walks, going for long car rides and walking in the bush. I love fishing even thought I don’t eat the fish. I exercise daily and take care of my family. 

My advice to others

If there is a career you want, don’t give up on it. It might take a while to get into the right program but it will be totally worth it. It is never too late to start your career. Stay determined and committed. A good job is worth the effort. 

I am Indigenous

Yes. I live on Saugeen First Nation. We are Ojibway Nation.