Stanley Manjarres

Venezuelan engineer builds new life for family in Alberta

Professional job opportunities, high security standards, and a society with solid values are three things Stanley Manjarres and his family enjoy most about living in Alberta. Stanley chose to come to Calgary in August 2007 while his wife, Ghislaine, and their three daughters remained in Venezuela. A year later, when Stanley had secured full-time employment in Calgary and was ready for them to make the move, Ghislaine and two of their daughters joined him. Their eldest daughter, Pamela, chose to stay in Venezuela where she is studying electrical engineering.

“Canada is a country that is open to newcomers and has much to offer,” explained Stanley, who is a professional engineer. “There are government programs and community organizations to help newcomers settle, find work, and improve their lives.”

When Stanley came to Alberta, he learned about the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society. The volunteer organization offers training programs and other support services to help newcomers make the transition into the Canadian job market. In November 2007, Stanley enrolled in the Engineering and Technology Upgrading Program and pursued English language courses to improve his communication skills.

“I improved my English skills and my computer knowledge, and I became more respectful of different cultures and point of views,” he said.

As part of his training, Stanley had a practicum at Suncor Energy’s Central Construction Department. In March 2008, after the practicum, Stanley was offered a full-time position with Suncor Energy and continues to work there today as a Central Construction Assessment Coordinator. He is responsible for developing and implementing a construction assessment process that promotes operability, sustainability and consistency across all of Suncor’s major projects.

Ghislaine and the girls are also adjusting well to living in Alberta. The girls are doing well in school and enjoy many outdoor activities in Calgary.

Before moving to Canada, Stanley encourages others to research the job market and the training programs that are available to newcomers. He also stresses the importance of family support. “For me, it was important to come to Alberta on my own and prepare for my family to join me. It was lonely to be without them during that time, but it helped that I met many amazing people, including many newcomers like me,” he said. “Having a supportive family is essential when making such a big move. Our transition has been successful in large part because of the support of my wife and my daughters. Their support and their happiness mean everything to me.”

 

Date Updated:
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