The IBB recently hosted its inaugural peer support training program in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario.
The program was built to give members accessible, relatable mental health and wellness support from trained brothers and sisters who share their lived experience — reducing the stigma that too often keeps people from reaching out through traditional channels.
Peer relationships carry a built-in trust that traditional services can’t replicate, and that trust becomes a bridge to professional resources like FSEAP when members need them. In high-risk industries like ours, peer supporters serve as credible, on-the-ground first responders to psychological injury and crisis. The goal is straightforward: strengthen Boilermaker resilience by building a culture where mental health is taken as seriously as physical safety.
Supported by CSO lodges and ISO districts across Canada, the pilot program brought together 21 participants from L203, L73, L271, L128, L555, L146, L359, L191, D10, and D11 — a motivated, passionate group who care deeply about their brothers and sisters.
Front Row (left to right): Creighton Gallivan (L73), Sean Warwick (D11), David Wade (L203), Nelson Tanguay (L271), Jesse Lauchlan (L128), Nick Smith (L128), Mark Miller (D10)
Middle Row (left to right): Syd Gravel (Instructor), Dylan Heemskerk (L191), Jason Lacroix (L271), Rebecca Foster (L359), Monette Brownlee (L146), Pat Bennett (L146), Shane Marcy (L128), Tyler Cochrane (L359), Jordan Stokes (L191)
Back Row (left to right): Brad McKay (Instructor), Rob Schindel (L359), Blair Allin (IBB H&S), Nick Crook (NTTF), Mike Keilback (L555), Trevor Loren (L146), Chuck MacLean (L128), Ryan Latour (L146), Jason McInnis (IBB H&S).
Stay tuned as we continue development of the peer support program and future training opportunities.