11/04/2025
đ¨Trade Insight, Real Talk, and Finding the Right Fitđ§
When Iain, a job seeker with a keen interest in mechanical work, met Sethâa seasoned heavy-duty mechanic with over 15 years in the tradeâit quickly became clear that this was more than just a mentorship match. It was a conversation full of practical wisdom, encouragement, and the kind of candid insights that only come from lived experience.
Seth, who works for Sobeys maintaining everything from tractors and shunt trucks to refrigerated units, shared how his journey started earlyâthanks to a family legacy of truck ownership. He shared funny and interesting stories, recalling how he began removing and replacing parts as a teenager. Over time, curiosity, resourcefulness, and a willingness to ask questions became central to his growth. âIâve never had someone in the trade turn me down when I asked a question,â he told Iain. âThatâs how you learn.â
The conversation covered everything from technical skills to mindset. Seth emphasized how the role is a blend of mechanics, electrical work, welding, and problem-solving. âIf it didnât break down, we wouldnât have a job,â he said. âYou need to be comfortable with struggleâitâs how you learn.â He encouraged Iain to keep challenging himself, especially with the parts of the job he finds hardest. âWhatever is your least favorite thing, do it until it isnât.â
Knowing Iain has a hearing impairment, Seth offered real-world reassurance, explaining some of the accommodations in the trade that could best support Iain in this area. He also described visual troubleshooting techniquesâlike using air bubbles in water to detect leaksâand highlighted how mechanical work today includes both high-tech diagnostics and old-school ingenuity.
Seth reflected on his experience at Sobeys, sharing that the role offers stability, variety, and the satisfaction of solving complex problems each day. He values the opportunity to contribute to an essential operation and to return home each night with a sense of accomplishment. âItâs a good life if you like problem-solving and using your hands and your brain,â he said.
Iain asked thoughtful questions about sourcing parts, navigating technical documentation, and the best tools of the trade. Seth responded with practical tips and even offered to stay in touch to answer more questions. âI'd hire you right now if I had an opening,â he told Iain. âYouâve got the attitude, and thatâs the biggest part.â
The session wrapped up with encouragement to build peer networks, learn from instructors while they're still accessible, and embrace the steep learning curve. Seth left Iain with a lasting piece of advice: âAct like the equipment is yoursâtake pride in it. Thatâs what customers care about, and thatâs what makes a great mechanic.â
