From joystick to paycheque: Irving Woodlands' forest machine operator Career Discovery Days

Irving Woodlands recently opened its doors to the public for ‘Forest Machine Operator Career Discovery Days’ in Sussex, NB. The events attracted a diverse group of nearly 30 career upgraders, including skilled tradespeople and those seeking new careers.

These events gave members of the public a chance to learn more about the career opportunities in an engaging, hands-on way. Participants engaged with various Woodlands’ employees throughout the day to learn more about our forestry business. Everyone stepped into a realistic forest machine simulator to get a feel for operating modern harvesting equipment. They were also given an opportunity to talk with HR about their interest and experience. 

The goal was to help attendees discover whether a forest machine operator career was for them, and our team was able to identify potential candidates for future opportunities. 

“Forestry is a sector full of opportunity, and we want people to see that for themselves,” said Patti Robichaud, Senior Manager of Learning & Development, Sawmill & Woodlands divisions. “The simulator experience gives them a real sense of what skills the job requires. If someone walks away thinking, ‘I can see myself doing this,’ that’s the first step toward a future career with us.”

The Career Discovery Day is part of Irving Woodlands’ proactive approach to building a strong workforce for the future. By sparking interest and connecting with people where they are, the company is helping ensure the forestry sector remains vibrant for generations to come.

Interested in a career as a forest machine operator? Check out opportunities at https://careers.jdirving.com or send an email to woodlandshr@jdirving.com.