For years, Elena Muratova chased excellence as a professional freestyle mogul skier, competing in the 2014 Olympic Games and earning second place in the World Cup. After retiring from competition, she was searching for a new career and found carpentry almost by accident. “I asked my husband to build a bookshelf,” says Elena, “then I realized – wait a minute – I’m interested in trying myself.” That simple project inspired her to try her hand at the skilled trades.
Carpentry appealed to Elena because it showed a path for professional growth. “It was nice to see that very precise plan of how I can build my skills and how I can progress with my wage,” she says. “As an athlete, I did my best and I trained, but there’s only one first place in any competition. But I find in carpentry, that if I put in effort, I know that I will find success.”
Now a level three apprentice with Local 1598, Elena takes pride in seeing her work shape her community. “When I pass those buildings and I see people there, it gives me a lot of satisfaction and joy that I was part of that, and it created value for others.”
Elena has overcome challenges beyond sport, including struggles with the autoimmune disease alopecia. In 2020, she even published a memoir about her journey, hoping to inspire others facing adversity. That same resilience defines her work today, reflecting the strength, perseverance, and pride that unites UBC members from all walks of life.
Hear how the trades and union shaped Elena Muratova’s life, straight from her!
