After architecture school didn’t pan out, Andre Gregorio ‘18 wasn’t sure what to do next. He then remembered Mohawk College and began pursuing the next step to his goal of becoming an architect. 

Andre says, “After a lengthy discussion with my dad about options, I remembered the presentation Mohawk did at my high school. I decided to apply for the Architectural Technology program. After reading more about it, I was confident this program would give me a good balance of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that would help my career.” 

Mohawk’s Architectural Technology program prepares students to work as part of a multi-disciplinary team in the development, documentation and management of the sustainably built environment that exists in today’s workforce. With state-of-the-art labs and co-op placements, folks who choose this program are immersed in real-world situations that benefit their knowledge and help them become future ready in their career paths. 

With the goal of becoming an architect still strong in his mind, Andre progressed in his program. It wasn’t until the end of his second year that Andre realized his career aspirations had changed. 

“My intentions remained to be an architect while I studied at Mohawk,” he says. “Over time, I grew to love estimating and contracts, shifting my focus to that and decided I would be more interested in something relating to construction, project management or estimating.” 

During his three years of study, Andre completed co-op placements. In addition to the knowledge he was absorbing, co-op was one of the deciding factors in his enrolment. 

Andre says, ”Through co-op, I was able to find a new passion and career path in contract management. I completed three placements where I learned in depth about estimating, contracts and trade management with low rise residential construction. This placement allowed me to form a connection that led to full time employment with the same company.” 

Another aspect of the program that Andre found valuable was the completion of a capstone project in his final semester. Though it was tough, he gained skills that still support his growing career today. 

“My capstone project was one of the toughest challenges I faced at Mohawk but the lessons were extremely valuable. I was able to apply the practical skills and knowledge I had learned and it taught me many soft skills like time management and teamwork”, he says. 

Today, Andre works as a Purchasing Specialist with Branthaven Homes, one of Mohawk’s Future Ready Premium Employers. Though it was a pivot from his original career goal, Andre is fulfilled in the vocation he has achieved for himself. 

“The nature of construction is that it is always evolving,” he says. “Constant evolution means every project brings something new and exciting that gives me the opportunity to grow.” 

As a Premium Employer, Branthaven Homes demonstrates its commitment to the education and training of future ready graduates. Skilled trades workers provide a critical role in the completion of homes built by Branthaven. They also support and advocate for the Women in Technology and Trades (WiTT) program and City School, which provides rapid skills training to people in marginalized and disadvantaged communities. 

The world of construction is vast and the industry is ever-growing. Andre has some sage advice for folks who are pursuing a career in this field. 

Andre says, “Do not be afraid to ask questions, no matter how silly you may think it is. Whether you have zero knowledge or 20 years’ worth, everyone in this field is always learning. Your professors, fellow students and coworkers are your best resource for knowledge, don't be afraid to use that.”