February 26, 2025
Now in its second year, the Mike Ash Apprentice of the Year Award honours Mike Ash; a legendary figure at Seaspan’s Victoria Shipyards, renowned for his unparalleled work ethic, expertise, leadership, and dedication to his peers.
In November, we introduced you to our five outstanding nominees in the running for this year’s award. Conner, Daniel, Jacoba, Nathan, and Rudy all embody the spirit, attitude and work ethic that makes Victoria Shipyards a place of excellence—they also make selecting a winner no easy task.
But without further ado…
“We’re honoured to celebrate Nathan Wood as the winner and recipient of the 2024 Mike Ash Apprentice of the Year Award. Nathan, you embody the qualities that Victoria Shipyards’ excellence is built upon, and you truly live our Core Values. We’re all very proud of you and wish you continued success in your studies, and your career here at Victoria Shipyards. Congratulations!”
– Tony Winter, Vice President & General Manager, Seaspan Victoria Shipyards
Nathan Wood | Shipfitter
Mike Ash Apprentice of the Year
How does it feel to be the winner of the 2024 Mike Ash Apprentice of the Year Award?
“To win the Mike Ash Award is a huge honor. The whole process of being nominated and then chosen as the winner has made me really realize even more so than before that I have a second family in the shipyard.”
What do you think got you to this moment?
“I work hard, I listen carefully, and I do my best every day. But I think that what really got me to this moment and my individual success at Victoria Shipyards has been directly tied to the people in the steel department. Without the support of the chargehands, journeypeople and other apprentices I wouldn’t have had the skills or confidence to win. Especially Jmack, without his teachings and support over the entirety of my apprenticeship I would not be where I am today, at work or in my personal life. The team work is what makes the dream work at Victoria Shipyards.”
What’s next for you?
“The next step for me is to stay at Victoria Shipyards and get better at what I do. I love the shipyard and I love doing ship repair. I want to continue my education in steelwork, ships and Victoria Shipyards itself and learn as much as I can.”
Do you have any encouragement or guidance for current Seaspan apprentices who may be nominated for the upcoming 2025 award?
“My advice for other apprentices is to keep your ears and eyes open, work hard and see yourself and your individual work as part of the bigger picture. We are the future.”
Join us in congratulating Nathan and celebrating his outstanding achievement!