Training Director Clarke Hurley doesn’t just help young people earn their stripes in the trade, he helps them build solid careers and become more well-rounded individuals. In more than a decade as the training director for Hamilton, Ontario, Local 105, Hurley has mentored about 1,000 budding wiremen.

The 35-year member was honored for his efforts last month by Skills Canada Ontario, a nonprofit organization promoting careers in the trades and technologies to the province’s youth. Hurley received induction into the group’s Klaus D. Woerner Hall of Fame in honor of his dedication to his profession and his contributions to the betterment of his community.

"It felt nice to be recognized," said Hurley. "In my job, it’s always good to see people succeed after spending years in the apprenticeship program. A license from Ontario is well-received all over the world. The students know what they’ve done is valuable."

The March 4 event honored six recipients from different disciplines, and was attended by Hurley and leaders of Local 105. Colleagues from the trade and members of the Construction Council of Ontario were among the nearly 300 supporters at the venue.

Jeff Grimshaw, a Local 105 journeyman wireman and former student of Hurley’s, praised the instructor’s efforts. "His hard work and dedication to apprentices and teaching is inspirational," Grimshaw said. "Clarke spends countless hours working hard to better improve our courses and schooling."

"In the 30 years I’ve known Clarke, he’s always been very dedicated," said Local 105 Business Manager John Martin. "He can get 26 hours out of a 24-hour day. I’m very proud that he’s been recognized for all the work he’s done."