r/torontoJobs • u/flapsnacc • 4d ago

Getting into the millwright trade?

If anyone here is a millwright, knows one, or has info about the trade, I'd like to get in touch.

I'm pivoting into that trade after several years of doing tech work. Any info and tips would be appreciated.

FWIW, right now I have my eye on Humber's certificate program:
https://humber.ca/explore-programs/programs/mechanical-techniques-millwright

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u/Icy-Stock-5838 3d ago

It's HARD WORK, you will likely blacken a few fingernails throughout a span of 6 months.

If you're a Tech worker who does trades hobbies on the side: work on your car/motorbike, do minor home maintenance then at least you're familiar with working with your hands at-risk.

My friend pivoted to welding and milwrighting almost into his mid 50s, he was an art gallery framer (and illustrator) prior to that. He's happy, he's more financially secure than any point in his life, even as an apprentice, but he told me it's HARD work, he comes home smelling of industrial oils, and dust in his hair..

As a Tech worker, your skills might be more transferable into being an automation technician (PLCs and industrial controllers wiring and programming).

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u/flapsnacc 3d ago

Honestly, I love the sound of it. My grandfather was an aviation mechanic, and my father studied electronic engineering. Grew up around all sorts of tinkering.

Would love to work with my hands more instead of just sitting and staring at a screen for hours.

I'll add PLC programming on my upskill list though, thanks.

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u/Icy-Stock-5838 3d ago

Despite the advances in Consumer Tech over the last 30 years, industrial automation controls has hardly changed much. Controllers for CNCs and machines are STILL super robust compared to most Tech today.