Driven By Professionals: An Interview with Cameron Train (@traincarpentry)

We are back with another instalment of our Bissett Blog! As a family-owned Canadian company that began in 1929, we know that construction professionals need products and service they can count on.  Our slogan “Driven By Professionals” is the driving force behind all the products and services we offer. Our products are made with professionals in mind, which is why we want to highlight some people in our industry who are doing some pretty incredible things. Each month we will be featuring individuals in our industry to learn a little bit more about them and the type of work they specialize in.

You may already know of this week’s feature through his Instagram, where he goes by Train Carpentry.  Cameron Train is a 27-year-old Finish Carpenter based out of the GTA. In this interview, Cameron chats with us about how he got into the trade at a young age by helping his father around the house. Now he runs his own business and loves how rewarding the job can be. Cameron also talks to us about finding balance at work, and how important learning on the job is.

1. Who are you? 

I am Cameron Train a 27 year old carpenter living in the GTA, many know me as Train Carpentry from Instagram!

2. What’s your specialty?

All types of carpentry, but I mainly do finish work. My main work is in the city, but my favourite work is up in cottage country!

3. How did you get into the trade?

Growing up my father was always building/fixing around the house so I’ve had my hands on tools since a young age. Then after high school my godfather brought me into his framing crew. I ended up going to college for a couple years for carpentry. After college I worked for a contracting company for 7 years, and eventually went on my own.

4. What’s your favourite part about work?

My favourite thing about the work I do is how mentally rewarding it is, I love stepping back at the end of the day, and seeing the work that’s been completed. I also love making peoples visions come true, its a good feeling when you can make someone happy with your work.

5. What is one of the biggest challenges you’ve faced in the workplace?

I would say my biggest challenge in the workplace is finding a good balance between getting work done, setting up new work, and making time for myself. Being a business owner sometimes you don’t have a choice but to get stuff done. Often this means having no time for yourself, finding some can be very beneficial. A clear mind is much more productive than a cloudy one.

6. What project/job(s) are you the most proud of?

My favourite jobs must be framing jobs or big deck jobs. I find these really change the look of homes and it is extremely satisfying to complete these types of jobs.

7. What advice would you give to someone getting into the trade?

My advice to anyone new to the trades, is to let the small stuff slide. Everyone makes mistakes, how you resolve the issue is much more important. And don’t be intimidated. Understand that everyone has to learn and we have all been there. Be a sponge and absorb as much info as possible, watch other trades and see the little tricks they use.

8. What do you like to do in your spare time?

In my spare time I enjoy fishing, camping, snowboarding, and mountain biking. Anything that gets me outside!

BONUS! Favourite Bissett Product?

If I was forced to narrow it down to one product, I would say my 16ga brad nailer. The ergonomics are unmatched with this gun.

Do you know someone who should be featured next in our series? Let us know!