your friendly sprinkler Fitter

from Local 853 Training Newsletter - Spring 2023

by U.A. Local 853 Training Department

HOW TO BECOME A SPRINKLER Apprentic e

How many years have you been working in the Sprinkler and Fire Protection trade? My initiation date was on April 23, 1975 - I’ve been in the trade for 48 years.

Outside of Sprinkler Fitting, what do you enjoy? To share some things about my personal life; I am blessed with my awesome wife of 49 years, my son and two daughters. The Sprinkler & Fire Protection trade has given me the chance to travel and work all over Canada. Outside of work, I enjoy fly fishing, outdoor camping, quality time with my family & grandchildren, and travelling.

I’m filled with gratitude and humility for my fellow brothers who inspired me. The most important motive to work at local 853 is pleasure in working as a team.

Sincerely, your friendly sprinkler Fitter

How long have you been teaching? I have been teaching since January 1998, approximately 25 years. My experience as an instructor includes Journeyperson upgrade courses, Training the Trainer, Working at Heights and WHMIS. I have served three different terms as a member on the Provincial Advisory Committee for the Skilled Occupation of Sprinkler Installer; participated proficiently on sub-committees dealing with items such as training standards, curriculum developments, Red Seal exam developments, and exam interpretation for the province of Quebec.

What is your favourite part of the Sprinkler & Fire Protection trade? My favourite part of sprinkler fitting is working within all aspects of the trade including installation, service, inspection, and maintenance across Canada. I enjoy working alongside a new generation of Apprentices & Fitters and having the chance to work with advanced technologies.

What is your favourite part of teaching? My favourite part of teaching is sharing new information, gaining knowledge and perspective of various aspects of the trade from different participants. I have been fortunate to share my knowledge and learn from Journeypersons and Apprentices, which makes my job interesting and rewarding. I would like to mention and thank some of my fellow Journeypersons, Apprentices & Instructors who have been mentors and amazing support during my career: Greg Mitchell, John Borlase, Ed Giggie, Steve Steele, Ray DesRoches, Reuben Morris, Scott Simpson, Gary Stevenson, Ted Ryan, Nick Smirnov, Nick Devine & Ben Prince.

Why did you choose the Sprinkler & Fire Protection trade? The reason I choose this trade is for the satisfaction to work with an amazing supportive team; I am proud to be a member of such a progressive industry. My brother John Gravelle motivated and inspired me to do this trade, and I have enjoyed every day; I feel privileged to be a Sprinkler Fitter. As a Journeyperson, there are many opportunities to work within North America and Australia, doing various positions in the fire protection industry.

George Brown College - November 1976

Front Row: Richard Gravelle sitting second from the right

What advice would you give someone interested in joining and an existing Apprentice? My advice to an individual who is interested in the trade is to seriously consider joining, as the level of training is high quality, the instructors are top-notch, and you will work with a dedicated & productive workforce. For the Apprentices who are currently in the trade, my advice is to complete your training, get your Red Seal, and enjoy unlimited opportunities to learn and grow in the industry.

Ottawa Sprinkler Install - Summer 1989