Wes Pickering

Background

About Wes Pickering

Straight out of high school I started my first job working with industrial equipment at Diggin’it Excavating. There I started at the bottom as a general labourer but quickly grew to become one of the company’s lead hands and head operator after only 4 years. At the company I learned to operate excavators, skid steers, front end loaders, and large trucks. Through my 5 and a bit years there I went from next to no knowledge of heavy equipment to knowing more about it than I ever thought I would. Not only did I learn about heavy equipment there but also about septic systems, drainage, plumbing, landscaping, how to safely excavate around utilities, installing utilities for residential and commercial projects and driving large trucks. This job really opened my eyes to the world of heavy equipment. With my job at KYBE electrical I was an apprentice who worked under a journeyman doing a wide variety of electrical work. I learned how to install and troubleshoot complex wiring in residential and commercial settings. The ELTT course I took at BCIT greatly aided in preparing me to succeed in this industry. I currently work for WinVan paving as one of two forepersons for the milling division of the company. I started at Winvan as a top end operator on their mills and quickly grew my knowledge in milling. I found a sense of fulfilment and pride in working hard and producing a great final product. I find the milling world is one that you truly get out of it what you put into it. At face value the work can seem arduous and daunting but at the end of the day, to be able to look back at what you accomplished, it can also be the most satisfying and fulfilling line of work I’ve ever experienced. I hope to continue developing my base of understanding with regard to all aspects of roadwork as well as perusing my newest passion, leadership.