Faculty member named ‘Instructor of the Year’ by Apprenticeship Manitoba

Lawrence Grimeau may be in his eleventh year at Assiniboine Community College, but yesterday was a first: he was recognized as Instructor of the Year by Apprenticeship Manitoba.

The annual provincial award is given to an instructor who taught an apprenticeship technical training program in the previous year. Recipients have demonstrated exceptional instruction, encouraged pride in the trade and are seen as respectful and equitable.

Grimeau instructs in both the pre-employment Piping Trades program and Plumber apprenticeship training at ACC.

“I like to have the students relate back to industry. I used to have my own shop and I’ve worked in different places so I like to have students do their work here just like they will when they get out in the field,” said Grimeau.

“You have to be on time, you have to get the job done, you have to take pride in what you do.”

That approach has served his students well. With over a decade of teaching now under his belt, he often sees those he instructed go on to build careers for themselves in skilled trades occupations.

“It’s very rewarding. A lot of times [graduates] will come up to you at hockey games and that kind of thing so it’s very nice to see them,” he said.

During his time at ACC, Grimeau has had an impact on the way apprenticeship programming is delivered in addition to coaching new faculty members.

“Lawrence has helped develop both the apprenticeship model for ACC and the pre-employment model that we have to date,” said Kevin Poirier, chair of construction trades at ACC. “He’s been responsible for mentoring new instructors for the last ten years and takes it very seriously.”

Grimeau has Red Seal certifications as a Plumber, Gasfitter, and Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic.

He was formally recognized in front of peers and industry members during the tenth annual Awards of Distinction on November 3 in Winnipeg.

Apprenticeship Manitoba handed out awards in three other categories: Journeyperson of the Year, Employer of the Year, and Employer of the Year – Internationally Experienced Tradesperson.