Hard Hat Hunter had the chance to visit 22 Wing North Bay and meet with two serving members. In part 2, we met with Electrician MCpl Buisman.
How long have you been in the military?
I’ve been in the army for 17 years.
Why did you choose to become an electrician?
I spent the first 10 years of my career in the infantry. I was looking for a change and one day they said they were in need of electricians so I took it as a sign and requested the change of trades.
Tell me about your training.
I spent 6 months at the Canadian Forces School of Military Engineering (CFSME) in Oromocto, New Brunswick. After that I had to fill my apprentice log book and went back to CFSME for 6 months. It takes about 4 years for the apprenticeship because there is so much to learn. The course teaches you the basics, but then you realize that the electrician’s work can vary a lot, from fire alarms, security systems new buildings, and renovations.
What kind of projects have you work on?
When I was posted in Petawawa, I worked in a field unit. We only worked on big projects like renovating buildings. I liked it because you would spend a month renovating a building, then move on to another project. Here in North Bay, I get all the requests, big and small.
What do you like the best about your career?
I love being an electrician because it never gets old. There’s so many different things I can be working on any given day. I love being in the military because what other employer would allow you to make a career change like I did and pay for your retraining?
What has been your favourite project so far?
I moved to North Bay this summer, but I’m really looking forward to working on Relay for Life for the Canadian Cancer Society. It’s a big job for us to set up the power for all the tents. It’s a cause that is very close to me so I’m happy to contribute what I can.
Thank you for your service, MCpl Buisman.
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