After finishing high school in Eritrea, Mohammed went to a technical school to pursue his passion for mechanics and learn to repair various vehicles and equipment. He then worked with the armed forces, where he was responsible for repairing military vehicles and equipment. Mohammed fled Eritrea and spent several years in a refugee camp in Ethiopia. In the camp, he could not practice his trade, but he did use his skills to repair bicycles and other equipment when needed. Mohammed joined Career Paths for Skilled Immigrant program to pursue his passion in Canada, and now he’s a successful and certified automotive mechanic in Nanaimo. BC. We asked him for an interview; here is his story:
What were the difficulties you encountered before you joined Career Paths?
When I came to Canada, my training was not recognized and I did not know how to find employment where I could use my mechanical skills. I worked at a fast-food restaurant, as a hotel housekeeper, and stocking shelves at a department store. I wanted to bring my wife and children to Canada, so I knew I would need to get a better job where I could use my skills, have more secure and better-paying employment, and where I could see future progress.
How did the Career Paths Program change your employment or career? Please state it from before and after.
I decided to study Automotive Mechanics at VIU. Career Paths helped me in many ways. Going back to school while supporting my family was difficult and the money I received really helped. Also, I learned how to write a covering letter and a resume and how to look for appropriate work, especially how to network. These skills were a very big help in finding a job as a mechanic.
What are the next steps?
With the help of Career Paths, I graduated and was able to register as an apprentice automotive service technician. It was at a job fair that Career Paths sent me to that I made the contact that led me to employment as an apprentice in a transmission repair facility. I worked there for over a year and have now moved on to a more general automotive repair shop. I am currently taking the training (on-line) for my second-year apprenticeship. I hope to continue with my apprentice training and eventually get my red seal. I am also very interested in learning the service of electric vehicles.
If you feel inspired like us and know someone who would benefit from this program, go to the Career Paths for Skilled Immigrants Program page to learn more or contact Daisy at (250) 753-6911 Ext. 102 or dbereska@cvims.org
