Embracing an Endless Ride on the Learning Curve

Meet Sam Lewis, Heavy Duty Equipment Technician
Company: Vale
Years in the trade: Almost five

Why did you select this trade?
From a young age, I loved mechanics. I decided to try out the trade in high school for co-op* class and instantly fell in love with it. (*Editor’s Note: Cooperative education is a structured method of combining classroom-based education with practical work experience)

Had you always wanted to be in the trades?
I always knew I wasn’t going to be cut out for a job where I wouldn’t be able to move around. I actually wanted to be a veterinarian, but decided against it due to the long schooling hours and some other personal reasons. That’s when I decided to try out the co-op in heavy equipment.

Was there ever a time when you had to speak up and advocate for yourself on the job? If so, how did you handle?
My ability is often questioned due to my small size of 5'3’’ and about 105 lbs. People are often surprised when they find out that I’m a heavy duty equipment technician. In every new work environment I’ve always felt like I’ve needed to prove myself. The doubt is easy to see in people’s faces and body language. But I just buckle down and do the work. Many people tell me I’ve changed their perspective on trades and women in the trades.

What is most misunderstood about trade work?
People seem to often think there isn’t much brainpower needed for trade work, but it’s quite the opposite. You use mathematics and physics every day.

What excites you most about work?
The mining equipment I service is always evolving, giving me a never-ending ride on the learning curve.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
I'll be a licensed Red Seal mechanic by the end of 2022. I will continue to repair equipment in the Sudbury mines.

What qualities do you bring to the job that are uniquely you?
I’d like to think that I change a lot of perspectives on this very male-dominated trade. I have a good understanding of the work, and I have the technical skills needed to troubleshoot complex equipment.