Our Stories
Caelyn Davidson has been named the 2025 winner of the Ron Starkey Apprentice of the Year Award at Irving Shipbuilding Inc. Caelyn was among a record setting 108 shipbuilders who achieved Red Seal certification in 2025.
Caelyn began her shipbuilding journey in 2019 as a Labourer before taking her next step into Metal Fabrication in 2021. Despite receiving high praise from her teammates, the recognition came as a surprise to Caelyn.
“It feels amazing to be recognized as Apprentice of the Year,” says Caelyn. “I wasn’t expecting it, obviously, but it’s a huge accomplishment and something I take great pride in. It feels awesome.”
Caelyn’s advice for current and upcoming apprentices is to not be afraid to step outside of the box. “Try something new, challenge yourself in a way that you may have never thought you were capable of, you will surprise yourself.”
Prior to winning Apprentice of the Year, Caelyn was recognized as Apprentice of the Month for her hard work and dedication to her trade. The mentality and attitude Caelyn brings to work has caught the eye of many of her teammates.
“Caelyn is not only a great employee, but also a great colleague,” says Nick Lace, Caelyn’s Supervisor. “She is continuously looking out for everyone around her. I don't think a lot of people realize how much she goes above and beyond to ensure people’s lives are better at work. Caelyn is a great tradesperson. She shows all good qualities of someone you would want on your crew. She works hard, always striving for top quality. She enjoys showing and helping younger apprentices and will always listen to advice or suggestions. Caelyn brings good energy and boosts morale wherever she goes.”
Established in 2014, the Irving Shipbuilding Apprentice of the Year Award honors veteran shipbuilder Ron Starkey, who started his career as an Apprentice Machinist at Halifax Shipyard in 1987. After earning his Red Seal, Ron dedicated himself to mentoring apprentices until his passing in 2013 after a courageous battle with ALS.
“This year, we had 108 journeypeople, so the decision behind the Apprentice of the Year was very difficult and competitive,” says Beth Hamilton, Apprenticeship Team Lead. “We had to look at every angle of each journeyperson and Caelyn consistently marked highly in every aspect. Caelyn is one of the most vibrant, caring and dedicated people in the shipyard. She’s worked her way through a Labourer position into a Metal Fabrication Apprenticeship and now is a skilled Journeyperson, we’re so proud of her.”
Along with the Apprentice of the Year recognition, skilled apprentices turned journeypersons are recognized for their exceptional work in their respective trades. These awards are presented to individuals for trades with five or more Red Seal recipients.
Congratulations to the winners: Tyler McGrath - Electrical Trade Winner, Devan Boudreau - Millwright Trade Winner, Christopher Hendsbee - Metal Fabrication Trade Winner, Oscar Prescesky - Pipefitting Trade Winner, Phillip Kemp - Welding Trade Winner
Congratulations to our new Red Seals! We are proud of the work you do and all your accomplishments. We know you will strive to be positive mentors for the apprentices following in your footsteps.