Brendan Strasdin

Heavy equipment mechanic apprentice with a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Political Studies and 10+ years of experience in landscaping and supervision. Completed the Heavy-Duty Mechanical Foundations program at Camosun College (2025) and have fulfilled the hours required for second-year apprenticeship status. This will be reflected on my skilled trades BC profile as of mid July.

Hands-on shop experience gained through a work placement at BC Transit. Seeking an apprenticeship opportunity in heavy-duty mechanics. I am registered for the Wage Subsidy Program; as an employer you can be reimbursed a portion of my wages during my orientation and training period.

1st Year Apprentice (Work Placement) at BC Transit (2026)

• Completed a 3-week placement to satisfy first-year apprenticeship hour requirements for the Camosun HD Mechanics Foundations course.
• Shadowed journeyperson mechanics, assisting with inspections and hands-on work involving brakes, wheels, cooling systems, and undercarriages.

Foreman / Supervisor at Shield Landscaping (2024 – 2025)

• Led crews of varying experience levels to deliver quality landscaping services including fencing, mowing, tree pruning, and weeding.
• Onboarded and trained new hires, ensuring all workers were comfortable and competent with assigned tasks.
• Served as the primary point of contact between clients, crew, and management — strengthening communication, planning, and time-management skills.

Gardener's Helper / Groundskeeper at Fairmont Empress Hotel (2019 – 2023)

• Performed daily grounds maintenance including mowing, weeding, planting, and seasonal landscaping.
• Assisted in the construction of a new park on hotel property; led a final project installing winter-resistant plants and creating covered, irrigated overwintering storage.
• Cross-trained in window washing to support the facilities team during winter slow seasons.

Landscaper at Quinn's Landscaping Ltd. (2015 – 2017)

• Graded sites for proper drainage; transported and installed a wide range of landscaping material as well as maintenance.
• Operated truck and trailer; collaborated with clients to design and build custom yards and outdoor features.

Night Merchandiser at Costco Wholesale (2011 – 2012)

• Stocked and tracked warehouse merchandise; maintained displays and general cleanliness.
• Assisted customers, operated point of sale when required, and upheld product and policy knowledge.

Heavy-Duty Mechanical Foundations – Camosun College (Interurban Campus) (2025)

Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Political Studies – Queen's University