In 2019, Lonnie Machatis, a member of Cold Lake First Nation, found himself at a crossroads. After spending years working in the oil fields as a Rig Technician, he felt the pull to shift gears and pursue a new career path. His sights were set on becoming an electrician, but like many, he wasn’t sure how to make that leap. That’s when Lonnie discovered the Trade Winds to Success program.
Lonnie enrolled in the pre-trades electrical training program offered in partnership with the Electrical Industry Training Centres of Alberta (EITCA). The program was more than just a course—it was a gateway to a new future. Trade Winds not only equipped Lonnie with the technical skills needed to enter the electrical trade, but it also provided the confidence and support he needed to succeed. With help in crafting a professional resume and access to a network of potential employers, Lonnie was prepared to take the next step in his career.
Through Trade Winds, Lonnie connected with Carvel Electric, a Métis-owned electrical company based in Stony Plain, AB. He began as a first-year apprentice, diving into major projects like the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion and the IPL Heartland project. It wasn’t long before Lonnie’s dedication and hard work caught the attention of his supervisors.
Over the years, Lonnie has grown into an indispensable member of the Carvel Electric team. His commitment and reliability earned him a promotion to Lead Hand, a role where he now operates a company truck, directs apprentices, and oversees projects at the Enbridge Edmonton Terminal.
Reflecting on his journey, Lonnie shared, “Going through the Trade Winds program set me up with a great base for a successful electrical career. The staff were incredibly supportive, ensuring I was ready to move on and start my apprenticeship. Carvel Electric has been a fantastic place to work—they’ve kept me busy, allowing me to get the hours I needed and have been accommodating when I needed time off for schooling. I’m excited to keep building my skills with Carvel.”
Jordan Jolicoeur, CEO of Carvel Electric, is proud of Lonnie’s achievements and the partnership with Trade Winds. “Trade Winds to Success is our first stop for hiring apprentices at Carvel Electric. Lonnie’s success is a testament to what can be achieved with determination. He’s become a mentor to all our apprentices, and it’s with the support of clients like Enbridge, who value the employment of Indigenous contractors and tradespeople, that we can continue to hire Trade Winds alumni.”
Lonnie Machatis’ story is one of collaboration, where the collective efforts of Lonnie, Trade Winds, EITCA, Carvel Electric, and Enbridge have resulted in an Indigenous man achieving his career goal and becoming a mentor to help others do the same.
