One Week Job

One Week Job Officially Announces Documentary!

2008-07-15T14:37:45Z

Greetings all! It’s been a few months since the last blog post, but both Sean and I have been busy.

You may already know that Sean is hard at work writing his book, based on his experiences during the One Week Job project (to be published Spring 2009).

Myself, on the other hand, have the task of taking all the footage we shot (over 80 hours) and assembling it into a rip-roaring, educational documentary.

With the launch of a brand new website One Week Job: The Documentary it’s now official! The film has started production.

But there’s a twist.

We’re asking all our fans, supporters, and guardian angels to help support the film by donating an hour of their wage. We know, we’re crazy.

But we think, just as the One Week Job project was only possible with the support of others - whether they lent us a few bucks, their couch, or gave us a ride - the documentary will be made possible through others.

Along with your donation, you’ll get your name on our Supporters Wall (coming soon) and in the credits of the documentary.

We’re also looking for business sponsorship, so if you know/have a company that would be interested, let us know!

To learn more, read the official press release.

Post-Project Interviews: Urban Rush, Radio Canada, and Breakfast TV

2008-05-05T19:35:35Z

I was finally able to collect Sean’s media interviews from the last week of the project, so here they are! Both Urban Rush and Breakfast TV profiled the project at the beginning - so it’s neat to see what a difference 1 year (and 52 jobs) makes. Enjoy!

And for our wonderful French speaking readers/viewers, here’s Sean on Radio-Canada.

Just The Beginning…

2008-04-10T04:32:49Z

My 52 weeks have come to an end - What an adventure!

I think back to January 2007 when One Week Job was simply an idea and I wasn’t entirely sure whether or not I could go through with it.

It’s incredible to see how far it has come since then.

Though it was a lot of work and wasn’t always easy, I am extremely glad that I decided to take the leap. It will no doubt be an experience I will remember for the rest of my life.

Now that it is over, I am excited to take some time and reflect on my experience. It was difficult to do so while on the road as I was constantly on the move: organizing what would be the next job, how we would get there, and where to stay once there.

As one week finished, I was grateful it happened, then it was quickly time to move on to the next. It will be nice to stay in one place for a bit and not have to continually make new plans.

Some people ask, “Sean did you ever foresee this growing to such an extent as it has?” Early on I realized it was something that resonated with many people and I soon felt that I was a part of something much bigger than myself. What has been remarkable is to envision these plans in your mind, and then to see them come to fruition as you imagined.

One thing I could not have foreseen was the kindness and willingness of others to get involved. I was so lucky to meet some amazing people over the past year and it would not have been possible without them.

Complete strangers on Monday morning became close friends by the end of the week. Wherever I do end up, I’ll be sure to have a nice guest room because I expect to have many visitors!

I have learned that if you are able to articulate what it is you are trying to achieve, the majority of people will do what they can to help you take that one step closer.

Thank you so much to all of my past employers, people who let me stay at their house, those who picked me up when I was standing with my thumb at the side of the road, and to everyone who sent emails or left comments on the site with positive messages of encouragement. You are what made this experience memorable - I am so grateful to all of you!

I also owe a big thank you to NiceJob.ca who believed in the project from the early stages and were willing to come on board as a sponsor to help with travel expenses.

I don’t think I have officially announced it on the website, though I will be writing a book about my past year that will be published Spring 2009 by Penguin Books in Canada and Random House in the USA (if you live outside North America, I’ll keep you posted).

It will be the story of my experience; from graduating college with no clue what I wanted to do and scared of all the responsibilities that lay ahead, to starting One Week Job with all my adventures throughout the year and what I learned a long the way.

We are also looking to create a documentary with all of the footage that Ian shot.

Targeted for High School and Post Secondary Students, the documentary will use my unique experience to provide an entertaining, yet educational and inspiring exploration into the question, “What should I do with my life?”

We are currently seeking sponsors who would be willing to sponsor the documentary, so if you or anyone you know would be interested, please contact us.

If you would like to receive email updates about One Week Job, what I am up to, and progress on the book/documentary, there is a sign up on the homepage.

I am often asked if I would recommend that others in the same situation as myself try 52 jobs in 52 weeks?

I believe the more we know and understand about ourselves, the better idea of what type of career situation we need to have in order to be happy. How you go about doing that is your choice.

The important thing is that it be a situation in which you are challenged to learn something new and forced to step outside of your comfort zone. When you do, I promise you will be amazed what can happen and what you are capable of.

In the past whenever I heard people say things like, “You can do anything you set your mind to,” or “Believe in yourself and anything is possible,” I was always quick to dismiss them. Over time, they tend to lose meaning; they become cliché.

One thing I have come to realize is that cliches become cliché for a reason - it’s because they’re true. Everyday people realize their dreams. And their journey then shared with others.

I hope you enjoyed my journey and in the process found inspiration to set out on your own!

-Sean

The Politics Of Building A City

2008-04-07T23:36:44Z

My week as Mayor of Port Moody has come to an end. Although I wasn’t able to pass a bylaw requiring every Port Moody resident to simultaneously try out a completely unrelated profession for one week each year, I still enjoyed the experience.

I have such a love for the city, that I found it really interesting to be involved in discussions that will impact its future growth and direction. I felt as if I was “in the know.”

I think a common misconception is the extent of the Mayor’s authority on decision making. I previously thought that it was the Mayor who made final decisions based on recommendations from City Council. I was surprised to learn that the Mayor simply has one vote. Though, if things happen to go wrong, he is generally the one that gets the blame in the newspapers.

It’s a difficult position to be in. On one hand, you want to keep everyone happy and make choices you feel will benefit the city. Though on the other, tough decisions have to be made and your opinion will undoubtedly differ from those of some in the community.

As Mayor Trasolini told me, “you must have a sense of humour in this profession.”

As we place ourselves in a position that is more accessible to a wider audience, you open yourself up to criticism. I experienced this over the past year and received some advice just over half-way through:

In anything that we do, there will always be critics - a third of people are going to love what you do, a third will hate it, and another third won’t care.

(In an elected position, I guess you only hope that a third will be enough to give you the majority vote!)

I could definitely see myself (at some point down the road) running for Mayor or City Council. Then again, after this past year I have realized I could see myself doing many things!

-Sean

New Perspective Of My Own Backyard

2008-04-03T10:32:45Z

It’s a different experience doing a One Week Job in my hometown of Port Moody. Usually my current job incorporates exploring the city; I am a working tourist experiencing the city for the first time.

This week, there is a real sense of familiarity. I simply drive down the hill to go to work, I can run home for lunch, and I don’t need directions getting anywhere.

I have always held so much pride for the city of Port Moody. It’s a beautiful place and I have seen it grow tremendously since I was young.

I have enjoyed experiencing the city from a different perspective this week. The Mayors job is quite comprehensive and encompasses a bit of everything that goes on in the city. As such, we have been moving around quite a bit, attending different openings, committee meetings, unveiling’s, etc. Monday night we paid a visit to the local Scouts who were excited to have us and asked some interesting questions about my past year.

City Council controls the overall direction of the city; they are the decision makers behind it all. It’s a big role and after having seen it from this perspective, I wish more citizens would get involved and voice an opinion. The reality is so much goes on in the city that we have no idea about as we are busy living our own lives. Then, we see buildings go up, people move in, landscapes change.

The goal is that City Council makes these decisions based on the wants, needs, and best interests of it’s citizens. I have always tried to please everyone, though I can respect in a position like this, that can be a difficult task to say the least.

Today, there are elementary school students coming in for a visit and tour followed by the Mayor’s open office hours. There has been some tough decisions as of late with the budget due by May 15th… could make the open office hours quite interesting. Tonight is the opening ceremony of the Chengdu Artist Exhibition followed by a reception and live performance which should be fun. If you are in the area, come on by!

-Sean

Week #52 Announced - Mayor

2008-03-31T22:43:56Z

Week #52! It’s difficult for me to grasp that I have already held 51 different professions over the past year.

Since I am always on the road continually thinking about the following week, I haven’t yet had the chance to reflect on the experience. When I take a moment to stop and think about it, I realize, wow, I have done quite a lot of stuff this year.

This week I have returned to my home town, Port Moody, British Columbia, where I will be the Mayor. I have lived in Port Moody my whole life, and so it’s only fitting that my journey ends here.

It’s a busy schedule this week, filled with the swearing-in of Police Constables, a visit with the Port Moody Scouts, a few committee meetings, Shoreline Art Unveiling, Chengdu China Artists’ Exhibition/Reception, and the Port Moody Arts Festival Opening. Every Thursday between 2pm - 5pm, the Mayor has an open door where any citizen is welcome to come and discuss any issues. If you’re in town, feel free to stop by and say hello!

So what’s next week you ask? I have another five days yet to figure that out, as for now it’s time to clean up the town!

The Many Facets Of The Military

2008-03-31T14:35:39Z

My mom would be pleased to hear that I didn’t jump out a plane this week.

Without a tandem jump master currently on base, there was no one qualified to take me. I would have loved the opportunity, but I must admit a small part of me was slightly relieved.

Going into the week I think I was more concerned with how my hair would be received in a military environment typically known for their clean cut hair styles. I hoped they had spent some time on the website, know what I look like, and so are aware of what they are getting themselves into.

Luckily they were fully aware and I somehow managed to come out of the week hair still intact (Though I definitely got my fair share of inquisitive looks). It’s not everyday, well actually I should say â€˜any day’ that you see a guy with long blond dreadlocks fully suited in combat gear walking around CFB Trenton.

Love For Acronyms

I thought that I was accustomed to the use of acronyms after I spent last week with TSAE in Austin, Texas.

I learned this week that the military’s’ love of acronyms and short form makes the acronyms of associations seem like a walk in the park. An example: “At 8AMS, I met a mech eng, two years out of RMC, now an LT at CFB Trenton. Then in the aft I helped config a flight sim at 426 TTS.”

At times it’s as if they are speaking a different language.

Although I didn’t jump out of a plane, there was no shortage of excitement this week and I realize just how lucky I am to have had such an amazing opportunity.

Out In The Field

Immediately after arriving, I got fitted in my combat gear, then met with the big boss on base, 8 Wing Commander Colonel Mike Hood, one of the many responsible for bringing me to Trenton. Then, it was time to head out into the field.

I visited several squadrons over the course of the week. My first stop was with 8ACCS, Air Communication and Control System with a primary mission to support Canadian air operations.

I participated in a simulation as an Air Traffic Controller bringing an aircraft in to land and visited the mobile air traffic control towers. It’s amazing how they can transport all that equipment and have great communication signals even in the most remote areas of the world.

Later in the week, it was interesting to see the actual ATCs at work. I was even allowed to speak to a few aircrafts giving them instructions on how to proceed. One of the pilots must have thought I was crazy because I accidentally held onto the call button while speaking with a co-worker a few desks away. Oops!

Simulating Real Flight

With the crew at 8AMS (Air Maintenance Squadron), I helped re-fuel an aircraft heading overseas, turned some wrenches with the maintenance guys, and assisted a start up.

Over at 426 Transport Training Squadron, I spent some time in the flight simulator to see if I had what it takes to be a pilot.

It was incredible how realistic it was. The cock pit is an exact model of what you would see on the C-130 Hercules, everything looks, feels, and reacts the same.

Although not really something to be proud of, I can now say that I have crashed a plane in Hong Kong, Paris, Toronto, Alert, and in Thule, Greenland.

At the 424 Search and Rescue/Transport Squadron, I arrived in the morning and 20 minutes later was riding in the front seat of a Griffin Helicopter.

I have never been in a helicopter before and it was an awesome experience. The pilot let me try my hand at hovering and take control of the stick when we headed back to the base in Trenton.

I didn’t realize how difficult it would be to keep the helicopter in one stable position. This is an important skill to master as many times the pilot will have to remain hovering as search and rescue technicians rappel out to the victim.

Adding to the level of difficulty, the weather and terrain will most likely not be cooperating in a rescue type situation.

After we landed, I wasn’t exactly sure what the plan was. The helicopter is really loud and so difficult to communicate without the radio. I got out of the front seat, then was escorted into the back seat.

Within five minutes we were off again with two different pilots and a couple of Search and Rescue Technicians (SAR Techs). We headed out to a nearby field for a training rescue. The two SAR Techs rappelled to the ground followed by a stretcher. The helicopter then lowered and I was able to get onto the ground to get an amazing view from underneath.

I always knew that helicopters generate a lot of wind, but I was surprised to experience just how powerful it really is. I had to drop to my knees in order to not be blown over and even then I had to brace myself.

Delivering Cargo

As we arrived back at the base, I left the Griffin Helicopter and was escorted directly across the tarmac to the C-130 Hercules, a military transport aircraft. I put on a different helmet, a harness, and walked up the ramp at the back of plane into the cargo storage area.

With several SAR Tech guys on board, we buckled up and away we went.

Once we hit our cruising altitude, I got harnessed in and helped open the side doors as well as the back ramp. It felt just like the movies. Flying in a military aircraft, the back fully extended open, standing near the edge looking down at the houses and trees that appear as mere specs on the ground far below.

The SAR Techs were unable to jump due to high winds, but I was given the opportunity to make three drops - basically throwing items off the back of the plane when given the order so as to hit the mark below.

Another highlight of the week was working with the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) unit within 8AMS. Basically, they get to blow stuff up. I got to blow a stick of C4 as well as about a dozen phosphorus bombs which explodes when contacted by oxygen. The guys were a lot of fun and it was a really cool experience.

A Range Of Opportunity

Before this week, I never realized the number of different professions available on the base.

When many think of the military, we tend to think immediately of fighter pilots, weapons, infantry… After only a few days within the military and seeing all the different challenges, opportunities, and dynamic activities it encompasses, I quickly saw the vastness and variation of positions offered.

Whatever you may be interested in, whether it be policing, photography, engineering, teaching, you name it and I guarantee that you can find something that matches it in one of the squadrons in the Canadian Forces.

Thanks so much to everyone who made my experience such a positive one. I really enjoyed my time at the base and appreciated all the patience and willingness to share your trade. I have the deepest respect for all of you!

-Sean

Week #51 Announced - Canadian Air Force

2008-03-25T15:56:49Z

This week I am working with the Canadian Air Force in Trenton, Ontario. I will be stationed at 8 Wing Trenton which is the biggest Air Force Wing in Canada.

I will get to see many facets of the Air Force throughout the week as each day I am scheduled to experience a different department.

I am really excited about the opportunity to see what working with the Canadian Forces is like. It is a profession I don’t think many seriously consider as a career option coming out of school.

In the email with my schedule for the week, a post script note written by the Major caught my attention. It was addressed to the Sky Hawk Captain and asked if a tandem jump could be arranged. Yikes! I jumped off a bridge way back in Week 1, so I guess it makes sense to jump out of a plane as we approach Week 52.

New Episode! Week #39 - Martial Arts Instructor

2008-03-21T18:04:58Z

As you may have guessed, trying to keep up with the pace of an “episode a week” was folly at best. So instead, they’re more like Easter eggs that you find posted on the site when you least expect it…a nice surprise.

So without further ado, here’s Sean’s bone-crushing week as a Martial Arts Instructor at Dojang Studios in Vancouver, BC.

Discovering The Land Of Associations

2008-03-22T00:07:41Z

If only I had a dollar every time I heard the word â€˜association’ this week. Being new to the world of associations, I admit I was most likely more aware of it, though I could have sworn that in each conversation I had, the word â€˜association’ was used at least five times.

On my first day at the Texas Society of Association Executives (TSAE), I probably spent the first half wrapping my head around the intricacies of association life and the vast acronyms that prevail.

So if I thought the idea of an “association made up of associations” was intriguing, check this one out: There is a national association called Alliance. This is an association for presidents of associations of associations.

That’s how they roll in the Association world.

I must admit, once I drew an organizational tree and got my committees, boards, chairs, co-chairs, and sub-committees sorted out, all the semantics started to become justifiable and actually made sense.

As Beth often said, “there are associations for everything.” And she’s right.

Driving downtown, she would point out all the different buildings of where various associations were located. Previously, I would have paid no attention to such landmarks, now with a tuned eye I was suddenly spotting them everywhere.

I had the opportunity to visit a few and spend time with some of the association executives to learn about the particular association.

A Commitment To Members

A large part of associations is about networking through social events and providing meaningful seminars to it’s members. Which is kind of fun when you think about it, each month there are a couple of party’s to attend where you are bound to meet some interesting people.

An association is only as strong as the commitment of its’ members. It would not be able to exist without their active involvement and willingness to volunteer in order for everything to run smoothly.

Beth and her team at TSAE could organize the best seminars and events possible, though if nobody shows up or there are no volunteers to help bring everything together, it wouldn’t work.

I sat in on the meeting with the committee that produces the bi-monthly magazine. I thought it was great that these individuals would take a few hours out of their day in order to bring something together they feel is important and will benefit their co-members.

A Texas Sized BBQ

Back at the office, Beth, Alaina, Sonnia, and Marc were all great to take the time to explain their roles with TSAE to me.

I was told that a visit to Texas wouldn’t be complete without trying out famous Texas BBQ. When I was in Georgia I had BBQ, though I was informed that BBQ in Georgia is generally pork, whereas Texas BBQ is usually associated with beef.

Well that’s one distinction, the other one of course being that Texas BBQ is “bigger and better.”

Inside The Board Meeting

Every quarter the board members of the TSAE meet. This happened to be this week, so I got to attend as a special guest and observe the proceedings.

In all honesty, it was not the most stimulating three hours, though I enjoyed watching the dynamic between individuals, the various communication techniques used, and learn about the overall structure of a board meeting.

Afterwards we went for lunch with several of the board members before heading out to The Renaissance Hotel for the tour a Meeting Planner would take when organizing a conference. It’s a beautiful facility and the Pastry Chef was kind enough to send me home with some goodies!

I have gotten very accustomed to staying at new peoples’ homes. I can feel right at home surprisingly quickly. It was even easier this week as Beth, her husband David, and son Matthew, warmly welcomed me into their home and showed me some great southern hospitality.

David is a Professional Speaker and a member of the local chapter of Toastmasters (a group that meets to build confidence with public speaking skills).

In 1990, David’s speaking career got a kick start when he won the World Championships of public speaking competing against 30,000 other Toastmaster members world wide. This local chapter meets each Thursday morning, so I went a long this week and got in on the action myself speaking to the group about my experience over the past year.

The TSAE annual summit is next September in Texas and Beth has already been asking me what will it take for me to come. I would love to. Though at this point I have difficulty committing to anything two weeks in advance let alone six months from now.

I guess you could say I like keeping my options open.

-Sean