TDE places a high value on innovation, new ideas, and creating a sustainable future, and consequently has always felt strongly about creating opportunities for younger workers who want to enter our industry. As a growing company, we recognize the importance of attracting and retaining youth. They’re tomorrow’s builders, engineers, technicians, and administrators that companies like TDE will need for the future and we are proud to count a growing number of young people among our diverse workforce.
Our recent survey revealed that overall, our complement of young workers between the ages of 18-29 is steadily increasing. This means there’s a growing pool of talent to not only bring fresh ideas but to build upon the experience and expertise of a previous generation. This transfer of knowledge will be instrumental in shaping the future of our industry. As more and more senior staff members move on or retire, it’s imperative that we train and develop younger workers to ‘take up the torch’ to meet the challenges of the future.
TDE’s young worker opportunities
We believe in creating multiple avenues of entry to our industry as well as supporting employees in advancing their careers with us. TDE has many long-term employees who have progressed into leadership roles from entry-level positions. To attract new graduates to our company, TDE posts Engineering and Project Management opportunities on the job boards of the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, NAIT, and SAIT. TDE currently employs many new grads and Engineers in Training (EITs) who add tremendous value to our teams. We also actively encourage other young workers already in the early stages of their careers to apply for our open positions.
Ongoing professional development
The keys to our continued growth, vibrance, and relevance in our industry and our world lie not only in seeking out new talent but to also support those we hire in forging a successful career. Through TDE’s Training and Development Program, employees can acquire additional training, courses, and designations either fully funded by the company or in partnership with the Alberta Job Grant. Both shop and office employees in disciplines such as Engineering, Project Management, Health and Safety, Administrative, Payroll, Accounting, Business/Leadership, Supply Chain, Quality Control, and Welding Inspections are eligible for this program.
Apprenticeships
Skilled tradespeople are the backbone of our industry, and TDE is proud to offer a robust apprenticeship program for trades such as Welding and Pipefitting. The hiring and training of apprentices is foundational to many industries, and a key element in creating a stable workforce built on trust, respect, and invaluable hands-on learning. Under the supervision of a designated journeyman and in compliance with Alberta’s Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT), new apprentices at TDE learn and master the practical skills needed to meet the industry’s current and future needs.
Mentorship
In an ongoing effort to remove barriers, TDE has recently implemented a Green Hat Mentorship Policy and Procedure program for new workers who are interested in entering the trades but are unfamiliar with an industrial environment. The importance of health and safety in this environment cannot be overstated. Presented with a green hard hat that identifies them as new learners, our Green Hat participants receive the critical training and orientation necessary for safe, confident integration into the industry from experienced employee mentors.
The gift of a new generation
Among the many virtues of youth is the ability to look at life from a different perspective than that of previous generations. We trust that our industry will evolve positively through our young workers’ values, skills, and ingenuity, nurtured by a solid foundation of past wisdom. The TDE culture attracts individuals who are driven to succeed, expand their knowledge, and transform their careers for the benefit of our future world.
As the impact of the energy industry becomes an increasingly important issue, we look forward to continually discovering exceptional, enthusiastic young talent through our Co-op Programs, Internships, and Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP).
