“I have always believed that putting in an honest day’s work is contagious and does not go unnoticed.”
Sandra (“Sandy”) Truckair is a third-year scaffolder apprentice from Regina, Saskatchewan. She is well-known by Local 1985 members for her 15 years of dedicated service to the Union, including the past seven years at the CO-OP Refinery. Sandy is thankful to be where she is today, especially when looking back on her journey.
Sandy entered the trades after spending seven years as a hairdresser. Initially, she worked as a Journeyperson Mud and Taper until she relocated to Regina and joined the Carpenters’ Union. Training as a new apprentice was a rewarding experience, but trying to find consistent childcare for her kids at the same time became overwhelming. With support from Union staff, and from friends and family, Sandy found the help she needed.
Throughout her time with the Union, Sandy has been described as an exemplary member who generously shares her knowledge and encourages others to embrace their creativity. Many Local 1985 members commend her for helping to initiate their indenture process.
“I struggled with the necessary courses after entering the workforce at a young age. Education has always posed challenges for me due to my learning disabilities. However, the Saskatchewan apprenticeship program worked with me to develop strategies that enabled me to regain my confidence in the classroom.”
Outside of mentoring apprentices, Sandy keeps herself active in the Union. She attends Union meetings, volunteers at Union functions, contributes to the Local 1985 executive as a trustee, and is an integral part of Local 1985’s SIB Program.
Sandy attributes her ongoing success in the trades to the many mentors she has learned from over the years, from whom she has drawn invaluable skills and insights. Sandy’s favourite thing to do outside of work is spend time with her family.
When asked about her future aspirations, Sandy says, “I first want to achieve my Journeywoman certification in scaffolding, and then the sky’s the limit.”
