Young Manitoban Transforms Career Through Plumbing Program

Jordan Beach, a 26-year-old from Manitoba, has embarked on a transformative career journey, transitioning from a comfortable office job to a hands-on position in the plumbing industry. This change was made possible through the First People’s Development Inc. (FPDI) plumbing program, which offers a supportive learning environment for Indigenous peoples and residents of Manitoba.

Supportive Learning and Hands-On Experience

Beach discovered the plumbing course while browsing social media earlier this year. The program, offered in partnership with the Piping Industry Technical College of Manitoba, spans ten months and is designed to equip students with the latest industry techniques and practical skills. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including cutting and measuring pipe, installing valves, and interpreting plumbing codes. Importantly, the program is free for qualifying applicants, removing financial barriers for those interested in pursuing a career in plumbing.

After being accepted into the program in May, Beach quickly found himself in an engaging learning environment. He praised the instructors, particularly Craig Gertley, for their clear and detailed teaching methods. Beach noted that the supportive atmosphere fostered by the program staff, including program coordinator Chelsea Lavallee, made a significant difference in his educational experience. “I never felt like I was alone or I needed to do everything on my own,” he stated.

From Student to Apprentice

Just three months into the program, Beach was hired by Randall Plumbing and Heating as a Level 1 apprentice. He now contributes to a significant project at the University of Manitoba, where his team is renovating Machray Hall to create a modern facility for the Faculty of Science. The project aims to feature a new central atrium, informal reading areas, and improved meeting rooms, with completion expected by late 2026.

Beach’s responsibilities on site include transporting cast iron pipes for a new drainage system, a task that exemplifies the variety of work he encounters daily. “Every two days, it’s a different task. You’re always learning something new,” he explained. He attributes much of his current success to the foundational knowledge gained during his time at FPDI.

Looking ahead, Beach aspires to complete his five-year apprenticeship and become a journeyman plumber. He encourages others who may be contemplating a similar career shift to consider the FPDI program. “If you look at this program and it looks like something you might want to do, go for it. I enjoyed every day at the school,” he said.

FPDI underscores its commitment to empowering Indigenous communities through education and employment opportunities. As the organization prepares to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, it emphasizes the importance of remembering the experiences of those affected by the residential school system. The organization invites individuals to explore its various programs and initiatives aimed at building brighter futures.

For more information about FPDI and its offerings, interested individuals can visit their website.