MULTI-GENERATIONAL WORKPLACES BENEFIT THE INDUSTRY
Newly trained workers bring new tricks to job sites
As parents, you always hope the best for your kids — that they will be successful, healthy and happy. For me, I never thought I'd have all three of my kids join “the family business,” but I am thrilled that they did and couldn't be prouder.
I can also say that I've taught my kids a lot about construction, respecting others and to never be afraid to ask questions. I can't deny that they have also taught me a thing or two.
The best thing about my job is that I am constantly in awe of new technology and the advancement of new products, especially if they benefit the construction process and make our homes stronger, safer and healthier.
In my opinion, any business will benefit from having a multi-generational workforce, as they will bring different perspectives and education levels to your team creating a well-balanced workplace. A construction site is no different.
THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS
Younger or newly trained and certified hires will be trained in the most up-to-date techniques and technology while the boomers, like me, will bring years of knowledge and hands-on work experience. This combination brings together the best of both worlds as we can learn so much from each other. I get the extra bonus of working with Sherry and Michael every day. Watching them grown into accomplished adults is amazing.
EXPERIENCE OVER KNOWLEDGE
My fans know that all my kids have inherited the Holmes “stubborn” character trait and it can rear its ugly head sometimes — we don't back down. We have learned to listen to each other and compromise, but sometimes Dad does know better. I always watch the weather as it is unpredictable and can seriously affect your work schedule so you need to be prepared. Does anyone remember when I told Michael to make sure he put the tarp on his incomplete roof a couple of years back because there was rain in the forecast? Yup — I was right, and areas of the house were flooded.
KNOWING WHEN TO BRING IN A SPECIALIST
However, I appreciate and respect specialists in their chosen field. For example, I know when to consult with Frank, my electrician, or a structural engineer or even an interior designer, for that matter. I admit, I resisted working with interior designers for the longest time, but with Sherry and Michael's influence, I saw that working with interior designers was a really beneficial and rewarding experience for me as a contractor and for our homeowners. See, you can teach an old dog new tricks!
Michael, Sherry and I still disagree on where to have carpet and hardwood, but we agree to disagree. I still like carpet in bedrooms and hardwood throughout the house, and that I think is a personal preference. Michael and Sherry prefer hardwood in bedrooms, with area rugs.
YOUTH INSPIRE US
My many years of being involved with organizations like Skills Canada and Skills Ontario have taught me to never underestimate the power of youth and education. With guiding experts as support and education, anything is possible. I've seen it in my kids, in our apprentices and new hires. It is so inspiring for me, and my entire team, to see what the next generation is bringing to the table and accomplishing. This past year and a half, I too have embraced new technology with the launch of my podcast. I can reach a new younger audience and teach them with my knowledge, but also expose them to new products and techniques. It's exciting and my passion for construction continues. I love to be inspired by others and I also hope I inspire others, too.
INSPIRING WOMEN AND GETTING RID OF THE SKILLED TRADE STIGMA
We all know the old way of thinking: the trades are for the uneducated, it's a last-resort career option and women can't do what men can do. I'm happy to say this is changing, but there is still much more work to be done.
I'm proud I have the opportunity to help young people, particularly young women, get their first real experience working on a construction site as we've brought on women from the WIST (Women in Skilled Trades), and other programs over the years.
The skilled trades are not a fallback career choice but rather a viable career option that requires a huge amount of skill, precision and hard work.
Parents should not discount the skilled trades as a career option for their children, and employers should hire, encourage and support the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
In the end, everyone will benefit.