are coming to an end. You’ve got to have the next round, the next generation. We’re better off to have better people than to just have people. The better the quality, the better the future.” For Havery, the first step to achieving this quality is getting involved in the LO community and attending board meetings. “The first step in bettering yourself is becoming an LO member,” he said. “If you’re active in the industry, you’re someone looking to better yourself, whether you’re a volunteer or just a member.” Havery joined the Provincial Board in 2023 to further improve himself and be more involved in the bigger decisions that inform the association’s direction. It’s been “eye opening” so far, exposing Havery to sector groups and helping him learn how he wants to contribute to the trades long term. He’s grateful for the warm welcome LO extended him, and looks forward to extending that same welcome to the next generation. “People are very open, very positive,
industry, we don’t look professional.” Together with Jon Agg, Durham Chapter president and a member of LO’s Snow and Ice Management Sector Group, Havery works hard to increase board meeting attendance. He said social media is a crucial part of the strategy, as it opens the door to the younger generation. “Social media is great, because people are scared to admit what they consider failures or troubles [in person], but they’ll shoot you a text. They’ll send you a Facebook message. That’s where the next generation has been a lot better than what we had growing up,” he said. Havery fosters this open environment by being honest and willing to have conversations. He said when he entered the industry in the 2000s, experienced professionals were less accessible than they are today. He wants young people to feel comfortable coming to him for advice; the more they learn, the better off the trades are in the future. “[Young people] are the future of this industry,” he said. “Trades are hurting for numbers. I’m 44 and my working years
Rob Havery
very receptive, very willing to help you in any way. That’s a nice feeling,” he said. “I’ve never had a bad experience, and that speaks wonders for what LO stands for. It’s been nothing but positives.”
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