Forging Ahead: J.D. Irving Celebrates its Skilled Workers for National Skilled Trades & Technology Week
In recognition of National Skilled Trades and Technology Week, held this year from November 3 to 9, J.D. Irving, Limited is proud to highlight the talented individuals who contribute to our success across various divisions. From custom machining and fabrication to shipbuilding, modular home construction, and advanced instrumentation, our skilled tradespeople and technologists are the backbone of our operations. These professionals demonstrate the importance of innovation, precision, and teamwork every day. As we celebrate their contributions, we also invite the next generation of skilled workers to explore exciting career opportunities through our scholarship program.
Pictured (left to right): Charles-Felix Gauvin (Grand River Pellets), Kaitlyn Russell (Irving Paper), Terrance Kar (Universal Truck & Trailer), Paria Ahadi (CFM), Robin Atkinson (JDI Information Technology), Valerie Martel & Amelie Gallant (Kent Homes), Thomas Smith (Irving Shipbuilding)
CFM: Pushing the Limits of Industrial Innovation
The CFM team provides custom machining, fabrication, and a full array of field, technical, and quality assurance services across Atlantic Canada. CFM is equipped to tackle projects of all shapes and sizes, from project and emergency machining, small fabrication and repairs to the latest in engineering, surveying, and technology. Every day, they bring innovation to the forefront, solving challenges and delivering results to their clients. With technology as its backbone, CFM pushes the limits of what's possible in the industrial world.
Terrance Kar: Truck Technician & Foreman at Universal Truck & Trailer
Meet Terrance Kar, a truck technician and foreman at Universal Truck & Trailer in Saint John, New Brunswick. Terrance’s journey in the skilled trades began when he moved his family from South Africa, adapting to new surroundings while embracing the collaborative spirit of his team.
"What excites me about work every day is the amazing people I work with," Terrance says. "When we focus on each other's strengths, great things happen."
Kent Homes: Innovators in Modular Home Design
The Kent Homes Engineering Team consists of engineers, architectural technologists, designers, and more — all working together to shape the future of housing. With a commitment to innovation and precision, they bring creativity to every modular home built in our Bouctouche, New Brunswick production plant.
From the initial concept to final construction, this team creates homes that set the standard for quality and efficiency in Canada.
Thomas Smith: Journeyperson Pipefitter at Irving Shipbuilding
Thomas Smith is a pipefitter and journeyperson at Irving Shipbuilding, part of a team of over 1,300 skilled tradespeople in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Thomas takes great pride in his work, especially knowing that he is building ships for the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Coast Guard.
"They’re important customers, and we all want to deliver the highest quality product possible," he says. "I’m proud to be doing this work with quality people close to home."
Kaitlyn Russell: Red Seal Instrumentation Control Technician at Irving Paper
Kaitlyn Russell began her career as a student at NBCC and became a Red Seal instrumentation control technician in 2022 at Irving Paper. Now, she is one of 240 skilled tradespeople in the JDI Pulp & Paper Division — mentoring the next generation of people entering the skilled trades.
"As an instrument control technician with JDI, you'll get the opportunity to work with cutting-edge technologies, have continuous learning opportunities, and strengthen your skills in the trade," says Kaitlyn.
Kaitlyn encourages future students to pursue careers in skilled trades, highlighting the broad learning opportunities available.
Scholarship Opportunity: Northern New Brunswick Engineering & Skilled Trades Scholarship
To conclude our National Skilled Trades & Technology Week celebrations, J.D. Irving, Limited is pleased to announce the Northern New Brunswick Engineering & Skilled Trades Scholarship — provided by our Sawmills & Woodlands Divisions. This scholarship provides up to $5,000 in tuition and includes a three-week internship, leading to a full-time apprenticeship upon graduation.
This scholarship presents an incredible opportunity for grade 12 graduates and mature students from northern New Brunswick to gain financial support and hands-on experience in skilled trades and technology.
For more information, please contact sawmills@jdirving.com or woodlandshr@jdirving.com, using "Scholarship" in the subject line.
To apply online, fill out the Scholarship Application Form.