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Gordon Lindberg passes along a little wisdom
 By Leslie DysonOur own Brother Gordon Lindberg has been declared top in his trade by the Industry Training Authority. The award does not bring a lot of fame or fortune, but it does give the mobile crane instructor a little well-deserved recognition. Lindberg was nominated by Brother Brad Randall, training plan administrator, because of his commitment to training and willingness to pass along what he knows. Lindberg officially retired on June 29, but no one in the industry is willing to let go that amount of knowledge and experience so easily. He said he’s on standby to assist the OE Training Plan and a former employer. Twelve out of two hundred nominated tradespeople were selected to receive the Top in Trades designation. Each received $500 to pass on to the training institute of their choice. “You know where mine went,” he laughs. He started as a mobile crane operator 32 years ago moving buildings, alongside his father. “Like any kid, I was out of school and needed a job.” Before taking on an instructor position at the plan eight years ago, he worked for Sterling Crane and GWIL Crane. “They’re union companies and they treated their people so well.” There have not been big changes in how the work is done, but awareness of safety is increasing, especially on the big jobs, he said. That is one of the two key areas that he stresses to his students. The other is “do a good job for your employer. In one way or another, we are always competing with the non-union [sector].” The students who are most successful are those who come to the job with the right attitude. Most students are in their late 20s or early 30s, but the plan has taken students right out of high school. “We’re looking for people with some job experience and who appreciate what a good job is,” he said. “It doesn’t even have to be in construction. But if they’ve been in the ditch a while, that’s good. Being willing to work is Number 1.” A three-decades-long career gives some perspective. Lindberg said he’s seen many ups and downs in the construction industry. During slow periods, he was fortunate to have part-time work. “You have to put money away during the good times, and you need a good partner, like my wife. She’s made sure of that.” He said he tells his students that it’s important to branch out and get training and experience in a variety of fields. “They see things as so rosy right now…but they will understand after they go through it.” He said there have been many highlights in his career. A favourite project was construction of the Cambie St. Bridge in Vancouver. “I worked with good people and there was so much work. What I enjoyed was working with experienced people…You know, it’s just boys with their Tonka toys.” Asked if he’ll miss it, he said, “I’ll tell you in a few months.” |
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