Matt Robert’s journey into the industry has been shaped by educational support and a family history of local entrepreneurs.
Matt graduated from Cobourg Collegiate Institute (CCI) in 2022, where he completed the Skills Trades Internship in Construction Systems (STICS) Program, earning four credits towards his High School Diploma while gaining hands-on training. This experience sparked his interest in the trades, leading him to graduate from the Trades Fundamentals Program at Durham College in April 2023.
This program introduces students to various skilled trades, providing exposure and understanding to help them choose a career path. Matt excelled in the theory, shop work, and hands-on training in automotive, electrical, and plumbing trades, ultimately deciding that carpentry was his true passion.
Co-owner of the business Trina Dyson tells us about their decision to take on Matt.
Trina tells us their experience bringing on Matt gave them the confidence to take on two more employees for their growing business.
After graduating, Matt heard about a free Pre-Apprentice Carpentry course offered by Fleming College in Peterborough, funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, and Training and Skills Development, through Classic Rock 107.9. With the help of his mom, he applied for the highly competitive program, which had only 20 spots available out of an estimated 400-500 applicants. Matt was accepted and graduated in October 2023.
Trina tells us how Matt, gave them the confidence to look at expanding their business.
Matt’s strong work ethic and supportive background come from a family of local business owners. His grandparents proudly owned Bill’s Pizza in Cobourg, operated by Peter Kourousis and his family for 36 years until its closing in March 2006.
Dyson says that like most businesses, they rely on the community as much as it relies on them.
Joining Dyson Construction and Renovation in November 2023, Matt has proven to be a dedicated, skilled, and engaging addition to our team. He embodies the community values of a small-town business and is committed to propelling himself toward success.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
