In this episode, Lauryn sits down with Joe Bonnell, who is the carpentry instructor at Guaranteed Tech Academy and Tom Taylor who is the owner of ET mechanical. They discuss the importance of hands-on learning, the value of strong mentorship, and the impact of Indigenous educators in inspiring youth. From classroom experiences to real-world skills, this conversation highlights how teaching trades can empower the next generation and strengthen communities.

From systemic barriers to access and training to the need for culturally relevant support, we discuss what’s preventing Indigenous workers from thriving—and what can be done to change that. Join us as we dive into real solutions that empower Indigenous Peoples in the trades, ensuring a more inclusive and successful future.

In this episode, Lauryn sits down with JEDI’s very own Tricia Chase! Tricia leads the Indigenous Adult Learning & Literacy Programs at JEDI. Discover how these programs can support your journey into the workforce, the essential skills you need to succeed, and the opportunities JEDI provides for those exploring careers in the Trades Industry.

Contact information: JEDI: info@jedinb.ca

Watch our podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zg3uUpvAHVY

In this episode, our former host, Gabe, passes the torch to our new IPA Coordinator, Lauryn. We learn about Lauryn’s experience within the trades industry and what her goals are working with the team at JEDI.

In this episode, Gabe meets his fourth guest, Wesley Pelletier! Wesley Pelletier owns WP Welding and Construction, based in Madawaska, New Brunswick. He shares his experience from before he started his own company, to how it’s thriving, and working across provinces with their quality skillset.

Contact information:

JEDI: info@jedinb.ca

Check out the WP Welding and Construction website:

https://www.wpwelding.com/

In this episode, Gabe meets his third guest, Jessica Johnson! Jessica Johnson is an Indigenous First in Trades Coordinator with Map Strategic Workforce Services (MAPSWS). She discusses her journey with carpentry, highlighting the impactful experience of being a part of an all-women cohort and what led her to work for MAPSWS. Through her position, she explains how she is supporting other Indigenous People’s decision to get into the trades.

Contact information:

JEDI: info@jedinb.ca

Check out the MAPSWS website at Home - MAP Strategic Workforce Services (nb-map.ca)

In this episode, Gabe and Laura have their first guest, Wade Wheaton!

Wade is the Indigenous Apprenticeship Counsellor at the Apprenticeship and Occupational Certification Branch of Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour with the Government of New Brunswick, he also has years of experience in carpentry. Together they talk more in-depth about skilled trades, about Wade’s role and how he can help Indigenous Peoples on their trades journey, and his own experience with carpentry.

Contact information:

Wade Wheaton: Wade.Wheaton@gnb.ca

JEDI: info@jedinb.ca

Meet our hosts of the Build Your Future Podcast, JEDI’s Indigenous Projects and Apprenticeship Coordinators, Gabe Isaac and Laura MacFarlane! During their first episode they will have some laughs while they talk about the Joint Economic Development Initiative (JEDI), skilled trades, how JEDI can help Indigenous Peoples start their career in trades, and touch on their own experiences with the skilled trades.Contact Information:https://jedinb.ca/Music by Roman Senyk from Pixabay