Shawna Levesque, a machinist with CFM (a J.D. Irving, Limited company) was thrilled to found out she won first place at the Skills Canada NB competition for Precision Machining, held in Saint John, NB.

Shawna graduated from NBCC Saint John in June 2018 and did her two-week work term with CFM. During the term, she was offered a full-time position as a machinist. “I always liked hands-on projects and so I started looking at  trades programs. I spent hours talking to my Dad (who also works with CFM) and he really encouraged me to try it out, so I did and haven't looked back!”

On April 12^th, Shawna competed alongside many other tradesmen and women in the Skills Canada Provincials which were held in Saint John, NB. Skills Canada is an organization devoted to the promotion of the career opportunities in the trades and technical careers to youth.

Shawna was in the “Precision Machining” category, which involved machining a part using a conventional engine lathe as well as a conventional vertical milling machine.

“When I was competing, I just kept thinking to myself that it was going so well. However, I never thought I would leave that day as a winner! The support of my coworkers at CFM has been incredible. Even people I don’t know are reaching out to wish me luck. People came to the competition to cheer me on and take photos and I had no idea they were even coming.”

Towards the end of May, Shawna will have an opportunity to travel to Halifax, Nova Scotia to take part in the Skills Canada National competition! There, she will compete at the annual 2-day competition against peers from across the country.

“I am really looking forward to Nationals. Not only will it be a cool experience, but it will help me build my confidence as a young woman in trades.”

The National Skilled Canada Competition in Halifax will be held from May 28 – May 29!

Are you a young woman interested in an NB skilled trades career?  We're hiring!