Shauna
Industrial Sewing Training Program
Cohort: Fall 2023
Student: Shauna T
For 13 years, Shauna dedicated herself to being a stay-at-home mom, managing a busy household and caring for her children, one of whom has special needs and is homeschooled. Though she found fulfillment in her motherhood journey, she yearned for an opportunity that could help contribute financially while maintaining her caregiving responsibilities.
Self-Taught to Professional Seamstress
Being a self-taught seamstress, Shauna always had a passion for creating and crafting. One day, while scrolling through Facebook, she stumbled upon a post promoting the Industrial Sewing Training Program (ISTP) at Campbell River on Vancouver Island. Intrigued by the chance to enhance her skills and learn to use industrial sewing machines, she was excited to apply. Since then, her journey has taken a significant turn.
She embarked on the training and found herself fully immersed in hands-on projects. Her time was spent learning to operate industrial machines, sewing, practicing, collaborating, and leading projects. Shauna quickly learned about time management and, importantly, maintaining a healthy work-life balance—something she used to struggle with. The financial support provided by the ISTP program enabled her to participate fully.
With the help of NW Skills instructors and job development team, Shauna crafted a compelling resume and cover letter, instilling a newfound faith in her ability to pursue a career in sewing. Her hard work and determination paid off. She secured two jobs—one ongoing and another temporary but recurring. The roles allow her to work from home and maintain a schedule that is perfect for her family’s needs.
Her Outcome
Her skills and confidence grew with each project. Shauna began exploring various sewing opportunities and envisioned a future where, as her children grew older, she could pursue opportunities in specialized areas like marine or upholstery or launch her own business. The training has not only equipped her with technical skills and instilled confidence in her but also helped her contribute financially to her family from a job she truly enjoys.
backgrounds, and walks of life was illuminating. This diversity spotlighted the invaluable power of team work, revealing that learning wasn’t just confined to textbooks. Our main resource, “A Guide to Graphic Print Production: Third Edition,” deepened my grasp of the printing process. Thankfully, for someone like me without personal equipment, the institute provided computers and essential software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. Our assignments were diverse, from crafting business cards to co-creating “cookie boxes” alongside Food and Beverage Production Worker trainees. A highlight of the course was the series of field trips facilitated by NWSI. These weren’t just token excursions; they offered immersive insights into the varied roles available for PELT graduates in the industry. Engaging with enthusiastic professionals and exploring areas like foiling, folding, and lamination broadened my perspective beyond just presses. Their candid discussions about job responsibilities and remuneration aided in shaping my industry goals. By the end of the course, I was proud that our batch set a record for the number of field trips, equipping us with a wealth of knowledge as I transitioned into the printing sector post-graduation.
Landing the Job
After finishing at NWSI, they helped send my resume to multiple printing companies on my ‘Next Steps’ list. This led to various interviews and eventually, a position as a Production Worker at Hemlock Harling. From the get-go, my coworkers were incredibly welcoming, helping me with basics like computer-based job logging. Their teamwork, especially in tight spots, is truly inspiring. On a lighter note, I’ve signed up for the company’s Badminton Tournament this September. Even though I’m new to the sport and there’s a tempting BBQ at noon, I remembered Cormac’s advice to join in on company events to build relationships. Who knows where these new connections might lead?
I have gotten 2 jobs as a result of the training and the contacts made through Northwest Skills Institute. I never would have felt confident enough to apply for a sewing job if I hadn’t participated in the Industrial Sewing Training Program through Northwest Skills Institute.
Industrial Sewing Training Program
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