UBC Millwrights Celebrate Success at the 2025 UBC National Apprentice Competition
Edmonton, Alberta – The Millwright Regional Council (MRC) congratulates all competitors and award winners of the 2025 UBC National Apprentice Competition (NAC), held September 25–27 in Edmonton, Alberta. This national showcase provides a platform for the next generation of union tradespeople to demonstrate their skill, professionalism, and dedication.
Six millwright apprentices competed in Edmonton, each representing their Local and showcasing their skills in front of judges, peers, and industry partners. Their performance reflects the strength of UBC’s apprenticeship, training, and mentorship system.
2025 Millwright Competition Results
1st Place – Brad Nicholas, Local 1916 Hamilton
2nd Place – Kelly Gillis, Local 2309 Toronto
3rd Place – Michael Geib, Local 1021 Saskatchewan
2025 Millwright Participants
Brad Nicholas, Local 1916 Hamilton
Kelly Gillis, Local 2309 Toronto
Michael Geib, Local 1021 Saskatchewan
Andrea Osbourne, Local 1460 Alberta
Riley McNabb, Local 1443 Manitoba
Travis Spellman, Local 2262 New Brunswick
The competition tested precision, problem-solving, technical skill, and adherence to safety and industry standards. Challenges included equipment alignment, layout, and precision measurement ensuring finalists are measured across the full spectrum of trade competencies.
We thank UBC Millwright Local 1460 Alberta, and all event sponsors, organizers, judges, trainers, and volunteers whose efforts made this competition possible.
“Every competitor put their best forward, and that’s what this competition is about, showing the skill, attitude, and professionalism that define UBC Millwrights. The future of our trade is in good hands. Thank you to Alberta and Local 1460 for welcoming us and making this year’s event a success.” – Mark Beardsworth, Executive Secretary-Treasurer, Millwright Regional Council.
In addition to the apprentice competition, the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (EDIA) Awards were presented to recognize individuals and organizations that demonstrate inclusive leadership, mentorship, and equitable practices within our trade.
Congratulations to Sister Kelly Gillis, a fourth-year apprentice with UBC Millwright Local 2309 Toronto, on being awarded the UBC Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility Mentee Award of Excellence.
Congratulations to Bruce Power (accepted by Mark Nagus) on being awarded the UBC Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility Employer Award of Excellence.
Congratulations to Sister Rachel Royer, a millwright with Local 1021 Manitoba, on being awarded the UBC Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility Mentor Award of Excellence.
“These awards reflect the ongoing commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility, of our members, and our partners.” Said Mark Beardsworth. “Congratulations to the recipients of the Award of Excellence, you have all made a meaningful difference in our industry and communities.”
The Millwright Regional Council again congratulates all participants and award recipients. Competitions like NAC and the EDIA Awards set new benchmarks for excellence and strengthen the next generation of our union and our leadership.
About the Millwright Regional Council
The Millwright Regional Council (MRC) is composed of twelve affiliated Local Unions of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC) across Canada. The UBC Millwrights are vital partners in diverse industries such as energy, automotive, aerospace, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. ubcmillwrights.ca
For media inquiries, please contact:
Andrew Bredin
Director of Communications
Millwright Regional Council
416-757-5161
abredin@ubcmillwrights.ca
