Emily Schmit

Emily Schmit is a fourth-year Plumbing Apprentice that works with Oceanview Mechanical LTD. She is currently learning how to program an AutoCAD, to build on the skills she already has. She enjoys speaking tours around North America to inspire more women to get into the trades.

Is there a specific moment you knew that you wanted to build a trades career?

It was the moment I graduated with my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. I looked at my parents during my graduation and said, “I don’t think I want to do this”. I did get the degree, but after speaking with my mom, I decided to try my hand at plumbing. So, in cap and gown with degree in hand, I applied to Camosun College for Plumbing and here I am six years later.

What inspires you about working in a Trade?

When I look at a finished project I think “oh my gosh, I did it”! I help design huge projects where we lay hundreds of pipes and help to create cohesive and functional building. I love how fun the job is, it’s a great challenge.

What advice would you give trades students looking to build their own career?

It can be muddy and dirty, but the physical aspect is more of a challenge rather than a detriment. Fit for work isn’t just about keep your body fit, it’s also about taking care of yourself so you can work. It’s about not partying or eating a ton of junk food, which impacts your workday. You do the best you can to be ready to work.

Also, I think both types of training are valid if you want to try university before a trade – there’s nothing wrong with that. If you do a trade before university, you’ll probably make a lot more money and it can help to pay off university. There’s pros and cons, personally, if I hadn’t gotten my university education first, there’s no way I would be doing the AutoCAD work that I am doing now. Ultimately, I’d say to try everything and don’t let anyone stop you from doing what you want to do. if you want to explore a career in the trades what’s the worst that can happen?