Oleksandr, a mechanic from Cherkasy, Ukraine, tells about his work in Canada.

«I've lived abroad before, so I integrated easily into my new life in Canada. We've quickly found other Ukrainians and made new friends. Our family rents a good, spacious apartment, and we have our own vehicle for driving around the city and for pleasure on weekends.»

Previous job experience and acquaintance with ILC:

In Ukraine, I lived in Cherkasy and worked as an assembly fitter on the experimental area of the Cherkasytekhnomash plant which is the part of the Bohdan Group of companies. In 2008, my eldest son left for Canada with the assistance of ILC and he has successfully adjusted to life and work in Saskatchewan. Using him as a model, I've made the decision to go abroad as well. Wages in Ukraine have fallen because of the 2008 financial crisis and Bohdan began to scale back production. I came to ILC and they helped me to find an employer in Saskatoon, to learn English and to type all the documents necessary for departure to Canada. They even assisted me in buying air tickets from Kyiv to Saskatoon for the whole family.

My job at the manufacturing centre and my life in Saskatoon:

Upon my arrival, the employees of ILC welcomed us heartily. I thank them very much for that. Now I hold the position of a mechanic at a large manufacturing outfit in Saskatoon. My duties include maintenance of different trailers; I work full-time, 8 hours per day. My colleagues are kind-hearted and sympathetic, and my employer is mindful and stern but understanding. The work conditions are certainly adequate: we have everything we need—equipment, tools, parts, etc. Of course, the quality requirements are very high, and my employer pays serious attention to accident prevention.

 I've lived abroad before so I integrated easily into my new life in Canada. We've quickly found other Ukrainians and made new friends. Due to my wage stability, our opportunities have increased. Our family rents a good, spacious apartment; we have our own vehicle for driving around the city and for pleasure on weekends. In Canada, there are more natural areas than in Ukraine. We are surprised at the abundance of wild animals, and I can say without exaggeration that the nature in Canada is pristine and fishing is superior.

I recommend everyone who is going to immigrate to contact ILC—they are experts in this field and know all the ins and outs of this process.