MentorAbility Experience Story – Eric

Eric and his career advisor found a job ad online for a lumber facility and he was very interested in learning more about that position. Eric is mechanically inclined and has an interest in wood working, so he was eager to explore this potential new path.   

To get more information and to discuss the possibility of mentorship, the career advisor and Eric connected with the lumber facility. After they briefly explained the MentorAbility program with one of the company’s supervisors, Henry, he agreed to participate in an on-site mentorship.   

They met with Henry on location and discussed important job-related topics, such as the difference between wood working and timber processing, the physical requirements of the job, and the processes to work safely in that workplace environment. Eric was given a tour of the yard and the processing areas and saw firsthand the logs being peeled to reveal the wood underneath, which was then processed into lumber ready for building. He also learned about the different products produced by the lumber facility and the importance of teamwork in their workplace.   

Eric was able to experience how loud the processing areas were and see the different types of roles within the yard. The lumber facility demonstrates strong leadership and a commitment to retaining employees. They also clearly outlined the kinds of challenges that are unique to their business. These challenges can include working in various weather conditions, high volumes of work, and physical labour.   

Eric appreciated the well-rounded tour, the attention to safety, and the training his mentor, Henry, shared with him. Conversations are ongoing about a potential paid trial for Eric, supported by Henry, as a next step towards employment.  

Thanks for revealing the inner workings of a lumber facility, Henry!  

All the best with your next step in the wood processing sector, Eric!