STERLING SPIEL

What brought you to KPU and your program of study?

KPU had the closest campus to me, affordable prices, and availability for the millwright foundation program. On top of that I had previously gone to KPU for accounting/business classes before transferring into the trades program

Can you briefly describe your current position and your main day to day responsibilities?

Currently I am a millwright at the Chilliwack Waste Water Treatment Plant. Here I am part of the maintenance team, and we are in charge of keeping the equipment running to keep operations running smoothly. What I work on changes every day, it could be pumps and gearboxes one day, welding and fabricating the next, and then updating maintenance records and organizing parts inventory the next. Being a millwright is a very exciting career! Ive worked all around the province from places like YVR, Howe Sound Pulp and Paper, and at the LNG Canada project in Kitimat. Ive worked on gas and steam turbines that are awe inspiring every time I see them, and been involved in rigging gearboxes and flying them out with helicopters. Very rarely is there a boring week as a millwright.

Which skills, knowledge, or experiences from KPU have been most valuable in your career so far?

My 4 year apprenticeship at KPU helped me learn not only skills required for my trade but also helped me network and learn social skills related to being a millwright. Being able to problem solve together in the class or shop is valuable experience in helping be a team player at work when brainstorming solutions to problems. As well the connections and friendships I made at KPU have opened up many doors and allowed me to gain employment in various industries, helping me become a well rounded Journeyman.

What advice would you give current KPU students who want to build a successful career after graduation?

Maintain your friendships and connections you make during your time at KPU! Not only can you build long lasting friendships, but if you are ever looking for work or a change in your working life, my fellow classmates have opened up many doors for me that otherwise would have stayed closed.