An Interview with Ryan
After being laid off from his job in the construction sector, Ryan Powell decided to go back to school and re-skill. With Employment Ontario Second Career funding and guidance from Algonquin College’s Experienced Worker Centre, he trained as a Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician and transformed his career.
How did you find out about the Experienced Worker Centre?
I’d been in the construction sector for quite a while. I liked working with tools and being part of a union, but the jobs were seasonal and there were constant layoffs. I needed a change, so I applied for funding to go back to school. That’s when my Employment Ontario representative referred me to the Experienced Worker Centre at Algonquin. Ian Paul there introduced me to a bunch of different program offshoots and potential career opportunities. Together we looked at all the companies that were hiring — it really motivated me to apply myself to the program!
What was the biggest support you got?
Above all, the Centre provided me with information and direction. Having someone walk me through the process of accessing and utilizing all the financing available to me was an immense help. I learned that the Second Career program provided full funding for the HVAC program and all of the supplies I would need. I had no out-of-pocket expenses except for the provincially mandated Technical Standards & Safety Authority exams. The money helped me steer my career from being a line worker to becoming a fully licenced professional.
What do you love most about your job now?
In all my previous jobs, I had someone looking over my shoulder. My current position at Clean Energy Fuels gives me independence and lets me learn every day. I’m happy that it involves a lot of travel, too. Growing up, my family and I were always on the road, so I feel right at home.
What are your plans for the future?
Having gone through the program, I now have so many possibilities. There may be an opportunity to get into the Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) industry. Working in that field is my inspiration and my dream. Who knows? Maybe one day it will be me writing about these processes in the trade journals!
