In this powerful and heartfelt episode, host Dan Plexman sits down with Valerie (Val) Vanderwyk, Executive Director of ISEAD - Indigenous Skills, Employment, Apprenticeship & Development - a national Indigenous not-for-profit committed to supporting Indigenous youth, communities, and their pathways into education, training, and the skilled trades.

Val shares her personal story as a Mi'kmaq woman and Sixties Scoop survivor, and speaks openly about the importance of community, lifelong learning, and building relationships based on trust, sincerity, and shared responsibility. She reflects on ISEAD’s longstanding partnership with CUSW, describing it as an unwavering relationship rooted in mutual respect, support, and a genuine sense of family.

Together, Val and Dan explore reconciliation as a personal journey, not a checklist. Reconciliation is a daily practice that shapes how we learn, work, and show up for one another. They discuss mentorship, culture, safety, the ripple effect of leadership decisions, and the importance of creating psychologically safe spaces where people can grow, heal, and contribute in meaningful ways.

This conversation is honest, warm, and deeply human. It highlights what is possible when organizations come together with aligned values, open hearts, and a shared vision for long-term positive impact in communities across Canada.

Want to connect with Val and learn more about ISEAD? Feel free to reach out to her directly at vvanderwyk@isead.ca

Don’t forget to visit www.cusw.ca to explore more opportunities and resources. If you have a story to share, a guest to suggest, or a topic you’d like to hear on the podcast, email Dan at podcast@cusw.ca.

🔻 Learn More About CUSW

Discover who we are and what we stand for: CUSW - Who We Are

🔻 Stay Informed

Get the latest news and updates: CUSW News

🔻 Get in Touch

Need to contact CUSW? Find out how: CUSW Contact Page

🔻 Get Involved

Explore opportunities to participate and make a difference: CUSW Participation Model

🔻 Never Miss an Episode

Catch up on all our podcast episodes here: Listen Here

🎧 Listen Anytime, Anywhere! – Find our podcast on all major directories, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.

📺 Watch the Podcast on YouTube! – Subscribe and watch full episodes on our official YouTube channel. Watch Here

🎵 Music Credits: Music Credits: Original music by Glen MacNeil (lyrics, vocals, guitar) with production by Brad MacNeil.

Tune in, stay inspired, and keep shining that CUSW spotlight!

As we wrap up 2025, the CUSW Spotlight Podcast turns the spotlight inward for a meaningful reflection on where we’ve been and where we’re headed.

CUSW Chair John Wabb joins host Dan Plexman for a year-in-review conversation that explores the progress, challenges, and collective wins that shaped 2025. From expanded member participation and committee-driven initiatives to a growing emphasis on psychological safety, inclusion, and respectful workplaces, this episode highlights the work happening across the Union, both seen and unseen.

John also looks ahead to 2026, an important election year for CUSW, and explains how workplace elections, national leadership roles, and committees all connect to the union’s bottom-up structure. The conversation reinforces a core message: "Every member has a voice, and every contribution matters."

Whether you’re curious about how CUSW operates, considering getting more involved, or simply want a clearer picture of the union’s direction, this episode offers insight, clarity, and encouragement to be part of what’s next.

Want to connect with John or learn more? Feel free to reach out to him directly at jwabb@cusw.ca

Don’t forget to visit www.cusw.ca to explore more opportunities and resources.

If you have a story to share, a guest to suggest, or a topic you’d like to hear on the podcast, email us at podcast@cusw.ca. If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends and colleagues to help shine the spotlight on the incredible work happening at CUSW!

🔻 Learn More About CUSW

Discover who we are and what we stand for: CUSW - Who We Are

🔻 Stay Informed

Get the latest news and updates: CUSW News

🔻 Get in Touch

Need to contact CUSW? Find out how: CUSW Contact Page

🔻 Get Involved

Explore opportunities to participate and make a difference: CUSW Participation Model

🔻 Never Miss an Episode

Catch up on all our podcast episodes here: Listen Here

🎧 Listen Anytime, Anywhere! – Find our podcast on all major directories, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.

📺 Watch the Podcast on YouTube! – Subscribe and watch full episodes on our official YouTube channel. Watch Here

🎵 Music Credits: Music Credits: Original music by Glen MacNeil (lyrics, vocals, guitar) with production by Brad MacNeil.

Tune in, stay inspired, and keep shining that CUSW spotlight!

In this inspiring episode of the CUSW Spotlight Podcast, host Dan Plexman discusses with Michelle Holmes, Red Seal Electrician, Training Technician at Bruce Power, founding member of the CUSW National Tradeswomen Committee, and the 2025 WiN Canada Mentor of the Year.

Michelle shares her 19-year journey in the trades, from her early apprenticeship days to becoming a respected leader, mentor, and advocate for cultural change within CUSW and the nuclear industry. Together, Dan and Michelle dive into the realities of building a career in a male-dominated field, the power of representation, and why mentorship is essential for helping women and underrepresented members thrive.

Listeners will hear candid insights about:

• Creating pathways for women and girls in STEM and the skilled trades
• How mentorship shapes careers, confidence, and connection
• The origins of the CUSW National Tradeswomen Committee
• The evolution of CUSW’s health, safety, and wellness culture
• Michelle’s role in bringing the Be More Than a Bystander program to CUSW
• The importance of community, family, and belonging in sustaining long careers in the trades

Michelle’s passion for lifting others up, challenging outdated norms, and creating safe, supportive workplaces shines through every part of this conversation. Her story is a reminder that when one person steps forward, others rise with them — and when we build together, we rise together.

Whether you're a tradesperson, a mentor, a student exploring your future, or simply someone who believes in fairness and opportunity, this episode is a powerful listen.

Tune in and be inspired.
Because the future of the trades is diverse, collaborative, and rising together.

Want to connect with Michelle or learn more? Feel free to reach out to her directly at mholmes@cusw.ca

Make sure you visit 𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝘄𝘄𝘄.𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘄.𝗰𝗮/ to explore more opportunities and resources. If you have a story to share, a guest to suggest, or a topic you’d like to hear on the podcast, email us at 𝗽𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁@𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘄.𝗰𝗮.

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your network to help shine a spotlight on the incredible work happening at CUSW!

🔻 Learn More About CUSW

Discover who we are and what we stand for: CUSW - Who We Are

🔻 Stay Informed

Get the latest news and updates: CUSW News

🔻 Get in Touch

Need to contact CUSW? Find out how: CUSW Contact Page

🔻 Get Involved

Explore opportunities to participate and make a difference: CUSW Participation Model

🔻 Never Miss an Episode

Catch up on all our podcast episodes here: Listen Here

🎧 Listen Anytime, Anywhere! – Find our podcast on all major directories, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.

📺 Watch the Podcast on YouTube! – Subscribe and watch full episodes on our official YouTube channel. Watch Here

🎵 Music Credits: Music Credits: Original music by Glen MacNeil (lyrics, vocals, guitar) with production by Brad MacNeil.

Tune in, stay inspired, and keep shining that CUSW spotlight!

On this episode of the CUSW Spotlight Podcast, we’re going back to the beginning, to the stories, people, and ideas that built the𝗖𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗸𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀. Joining us is 𝗧𝗼𝗺 𝗠𝗮𝗰𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗻, a founding member of CUSW and the union’s National Business Development and Strategy Lead.

Tom’s career spans nearly four decades in the labour movement. He started on the tools as an apprentice at Ontario Hydro, worked maintenance at Chrysler plants in Windsor and Brampton, and served in countless leadership roles, from steward and chief steward to president, vice president, and now national representative.

His journey has given him a front-row seat to the evolution of CUSW, from a bold idea shared among a few determined tradespeople to the strong, forward-looking community it is today.

In this episode, Tom MacLean and host Dan Plexman discuss the early days of CUSW, including the challenges, risks, and the belief that workers could build something better together. They delve into how organizing has evolved over the years, and why participation and member empowerment remain at the core of everything we do.

Listeners will hear firsthand what it takes to grow a union that adapts to change while staying true to its values. It’s a candid, inspiring look at leadership, vision, and the legacy of collaboration that continues to drive CUSW forward.

𝗜𝗳 𝘆𝗼𝘂’𝘃𝗲 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝘄𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗖𝗨𝗦𝗪 𝗰𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲, or what it means to truly build a union from the ground up, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

Want to connect with Tom or learn more? Feel free to reach out to him directly at 𝘁𝗺𝗮𝗰𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗻@𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘄.𝗰𝗮

Make sure you visit 𝗵𝘁𝘁𝗽𝘀://𝘄𝘄𝘄.𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘄.𝗰𝗮/ to explore more opportunities and resources. If you have a story to share, a guest to suggest, or a topic you’d like to hear on the podcast, email us at 𝗽𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁@𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘄.𝗰𝗮.

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with your network to help shine a spotlight on the incredible work happening at CUSW!

🔻 Learn More About CUSW

Discover who we are and what we stand for: CUSW - Who We Are

🔻 Stay Informed

Get the latest news and updates: CUSW News

🔻 Get in Touch

Need to contact CUSW? Find out how: CUSW Contact Page

🔻 Get Involved

Explore opportunities to participate and make a difference: CUSW Participation Model

🔻 Never Miss an Episode

Catch up on all our podcast episodes here: Listen Here

🎧 Listen Anytime, Anywhere! – Find our podcast on all major directories, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.

📺 Watch the Podcast on YouTube! – Subscribe and watch full episodes on our official YouTube channel. Watch Here

🎵 Music Credits: Music Credits: Original music by Glen MacNeil (lyrics, vocals, guitar) with production by Brad MacNeil.

Tune in, stay inspired, and keep shining that CUSW spotlight!

In this episode of the CUSW Spotlight Podcast, host Dan Plexman is having a discussion with Shannon Veitch, an electrician and long-time CUSW member who co-chairs the CUSW National Health, Safety & Wellness Committee.

Together, they explore the story and purpose behind CUSW’s annual Health, Safety & Wellness Conference, how it has grown into a space where members, and families, come together to learn, connect, and strengthen the values that make our union unique.

From supporting mental health and preventing workplace injuries to fostering empathy, inclusion, and life balance, Shannon and Dan reflect on what it means to create a safer, healthier, and more connected workplace, and why every member has something to gain from being part of the conversation.

You can watch here:

2021 HSW Conference (virtual)

2022 HSW Conference - Five minutes of empathy

2023 HSW Conference - Kinder and Better when we are together

2024 HSW Conference - Moving the needle on healthy communication

Want to connect with Shannon or learn more? Feel free to reach out to her directly at shannon.veitch@hotmail.com

Don’t forget to visit www.cusw.ca to explore more opportunities and resources. If you have a story to share, a guest to suggest, or a topic you’d like to hear on the podcast, email us at podcast@cusw.ca.

🔻 Learn More About CUSW

Discover who we are and what we stand for: CUSW - Who We Are

🔻 Stay Informed

Get the latest news and updates: CUSW News

🔻 Get in Touch

Need to contact CUSW? Find out how: CUSW Contact Page

🔻 Get Involved

Explore opportunities to participate and make a difference: CUSW Participation Model

🔻 Never Miss an Episode

Catch up on all our podcast episodes here: Listen Here

🎧 Listen Anytime, Anywhere! – Find our podcast on all major directories, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.

📺 Watch the Podcast on YouTube! – Subscribe and watch full episodes on our official YouTube channel. Watch Here

🎵 Music Credits: Music Credits: Original music by Glen MacNeil (lyrics, vocals, guitar) with production by Brad MacNeil.

Tune in, stay inspired, and keep shining that CUSW spotlight!

From apprentice to leader, Nathan DeGagne’s journey with CUSW highlights the power of participation and opportunity.

In this episode, Nathan shares his experiences in the apprenticeship program, his role in supporting new members, and his thoughts on upcoming changes within the union.

He opens up about the importance of engagement, communication, and raising your hand to get involved, whether it’s in the workplace, on a committee, or at a national level. Nathan also reflects on moments of choice, the lessons learned along the way, and with elections coming up next year, he highlights why participation matters.

As host Dan Plexman reminds us, CUSW is a union that works from the bottom up, and Nathan’s journey shows exactly how members can take part, grow, and make an impact.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about growth, leadership, and how every member can make an impact in shaping the future of CUSW.

Want to connect with Nathan or learn more? Feel free to reach out to him directly at ndegagne@cusw.ca

Don’t forget to visit www.cusw.ca to explore more opportunities and resources. If you have a story to share, a guest to suggest, or a topic you’d like to hear on the podcast, email us at podcast@cusw.ca.

🔗 Mentioned in This Episode
Want to explore more about what we talked about today? Below you'll find links and resources referenced in the episode.

• The advantages of apprenticeships with CUSW
• Veterans Affairs Canada
• Helmets to Hardhats
• We Build a Dream
• Meet our partners

I

🔻 Learn More About CUSW

Discover who we are and what we stand for: CUSW - Who We Are

🔻 Stay Informed

Get the latest news and updates: CUSW News

🔻 Get in Touch

Need to contact CUSW? Find out how: CUSW Contact Page

🔻 Get Involved

Explore opportunities to participate and make a difference: CUSW Participation Model

🔻 Never Miss an Episode

Catch up on all our podcast episodes here: Listen Here

🎧 Listen Anytime, Anywhere! – Find our podcast on all major directories, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.

📺 Watch the Podcast on YouTube! – Subscribe and watch full episodes on our official YouTube channel. Watch Here

🎵 Music Credits: Music Credits: Original music by Glen MacNeil (lyrics, vocals, guitar) with production by Brad MacNeil.

Tune in, stay inspired, and keep shining that CUSW spotlight!

We are back with another insightful conversation, this time with Kristopher Stevens, a dedicated community builder, sustainability leader, and long-time member of the Canadian Union of Skilled Workers.

Kris shares how his journey through renewable energy, affordable housing, and grassroots governance has shaped both his personal philosophy and CUSW’s future.

From embedding values into decision-making and opening new doors in sustainable industries, to fostering intergenerational mentorship and reimagining affordable housing, Kristopher highlights the power of people coming together to create meaningful change.

He also reflects on the importance of health, balance, and "choosing the right people over the right job" is wisdom that continues to guide his work and life.

This conversation is about career highlights and also about building community, honoring our elders, empowering the next generation, and shaping a sustainable, equitable future.

Check this out! https://ccu-csc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/CCU-Connections-Summer-2025.pdf

Kristopher serves as:

• Sustainability and Innovation Advisor at CUSW
• Executive Director of Cohousing Options Canada Non-profit
• President of Roots to Roofs Community Development Society
• President of the Smart Net Coalition
• Director of the Aboriginal Skilled Workers Association
• Member of CUSW’s Training Committee and Participation Roundtable

Outside of work, he’s an active Scout leader, avid cook, and daily martial arts practitioner.

Interested in learning more? Reach out to him directly at kstevens@cusw.ca

Make sure you visit https://www.cusw.ca/ to explore more opportunities and resources. If you have a story to share, a guest to suggest, or a topic you’d like to hear on the podcast, email us at 𝗽𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁@𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘄.𝗰𝗮.

And if you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends and colleagues to help shine the spotlight on the incredible work happening at CUSW!

🔻 Learn More About CUSW

Discover who we are and what we stand for: CUSW - Who We Are

🔻 Stay Informed

Get the latest news and updates: CUSW News

🔻 Get in Touch

Need to contact CUSW? Find out how: CUSW Contact Page

🔻 Get Involved

Explore opportunities to participate and make a difference: CUSW Participation Model

🔻 Never Miss an Episode

Catch up on all our podcast episodes here: Listen Here

🎧 Listen Anytime, Anywhere! – Find our podcast on all major directories, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.

📺 Watch the Podcast on YouTube! – Subscribe and watch full episodes on our official YouTube channel. Watch Here

🎵 Music Credits: Music Credits: Original music by Glen MacNeil (lyrics, vocals, guitar) with production by Brad MacNeil.

Tune in, stay inspired, and keep shining that CUSW spotlight!

On this episode of 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗨𝗦𝗪 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝘁𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 𝗣𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁, we’re shining the light on Pauline Cranston, a licensed 309A electrician, union leader, proud young mom, and a true force in the Canadian Union of Skilled Workers.

Pauline doesn’t just “show up”. She is on the tools with Hydro One, chairs the North-East Unit, and sits on more CUSW committees than you can count… all while raising a young family. Talk about drinking the Kool-Aid!

In this fun and inspiring conversation, Pauline shares how she got her start in the trades, why participation matters so much, and what keeps her motivated to give back. From strengthening union culture to creating space for members and their families to connect and get involved, Pauline proves that with passion and purpose, you really can leave a legacy to be proud of.

Tune in for a candid conversation about leadership, fun events, and why being “feet first and all in” is what makes the CUSW community not only stronger, but also the funnest place to be.

Pauline believes deeply in the values of the union: equity, participation, community, and empowerment. Her passion lies in being a voice for all members, especially women and underrepresented workers, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued.

She is committed to fostering mentorship, building strong connections, and creating a workplace culture that supports both personal and professional growth.

“Being part of CUSW means standing together, lifting each other up, and making sure everyone—no matter their background or journey—has the opportunity to lead and be heard.”

Want to connect with Pauline? Feel free to reach out to her directly at pcranston@𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘄.𝗰𝗮

Don't forget 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵, 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗪𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗦𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗲 𝗗𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿 & 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁!

Make sure you visit https://www.cusw.ca/ to explore more opportunities and resources. If you have a story to share, a guest to suggest, or a topic you’d like to hear on the podcast, email us at 𝗽𝗼𝗱𝗰𝗮𝘀𝘁@𝗰𝘂𝘀𝘄.𝗰𝗮. And if you enjoyed this episode, share it with your friends and colleagues to help shine the spotlight on the incredible work happening at CUSW!

🔻 Learn More About CUSW

Discover who we are and what we stand for: CUSW - Who We Are

🔻 Stay Informed

Get the latest news and updates: CUSW News

🔻 Get in Touch

Need to contact CUSW? Find out how: CUSW Contact Page

🔻 Get Involved

Explore opportunities to participate and make a difference: CUSW Participation Model

🔻 Never Miss an Episode

Catch up on all our podcast episodes here: Listen Here

🎧 Listen Anytime, Anywhere! – Find our podcast on all major directories, including Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.

📺 Watch the Podcast on YouTube! – Subscribe and watch full episodes on our official YouTube channel. Watch Here

🎵 Music Credits: Music Credits: Original music by Glen MacNeil (lyrics, vocals, guitar) with production by Brad MacNeil.

Tune in, stay inspired, and keep shining that CUSW spotlight!