Unforgettable Summer Jobs That Shaped Canada's Leaders: Lessons from Politicians and Luminaries

Introduction

Whether exciting, monotonous or somewhere in between, many of us have had seasonal work that taught us a thing or two. In the spirit of the season, we explore the best summer jobs of local politicians and how these experiences shaped their careers and skills.

Personal Insights from the Author

At a small museum in my hometown, I learned that some Americans think they can pay admission in U.S. dollars no matter how far they are from the border. And, as a cultural assistant at the University of Victoria’s English language centre, I learned how exciting Canada can be through fresh eyes. After four months as an intern at the Times Colonist, I can confidently say it was my best summer job yet, learning the ropes of a daily newspaper.

Notable Summer Jobs from Newsroom Staff

Newsroom staff have held diverse roles, such as wearing a sandwich board and handing out coupons, running a mine train in Alberta, leading kids' programs, and taking heritage photos. These jobs provided unique perspectives and skills.

Before he was the mayor of Saanich, a young Dean Murdock enjoyed making people laugh in the checkout line at Thrifty Foods.

Dean Murdock: Flip, flop and fly at the grocery store

Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock mastered flipping plastic conveyor belt dividers at Thrifty Foods in his early 20s. He loved the social aspect, comparing it to speed dating, and it helped him develop people skills and think on his feet, which he uses in politics today.

Agriculture Minister Lana Popham poses with Rosie the goat during a tour of Country Bee Honey Farm.

Lana Popham: In the dish pit at 4:30 a.m. at a Quadra Island resort

Before becoming an MLA, Lana Popham washed dishes at a resort, starting at 4:30 a.m. This job taught her the hard work behind the restaurant industry, which informs her role as minister. She also worked multiple jobs, learning resilience and humor in challenging situations.

Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog made a friendly wager on a hockey game.

Leonard Krog: Working the pumps in Parksville, and cleaning up

Nanaimo Mayor Leonard Krog worked as a gas jockey, dealing with tourists and cleaning up messes. He later worked at a liquor store, learning about alcoholism and how to handle difficult situations, which prepared him for politics and law.

Elizabeth May worked at her parents’ restaurant on the Cabot Trail.

Elizabeth May: Jumping for frogs and Mark Twain in Connecticut

Green Party Leader Elizabeth May started as a tour guide, registering frogs for a competition and feeling connected to Mark Twain. She also worked long hours at her family's restaurant, which taught her multitasking and customer service skills essential for being an MP.

Mayor Barb Desjardins waves during a parade.

Barbara Desjardins: Doing it all on a ferry to Niagara-on-the-Lake

Esquimalt Mayor Barb Desjardins worked on a ferry, handling various tasks and meeting diverse people. This job helped her overcome shyness and develop problem-solving abilities she uses in public office.

Victoria MP Will Greaves began his love affair with Western Canada as a camp counsellor.

Will Greaves: ‘A little over-confident’ as an Army Cadet camp counsellor

Victoria MP Will Greaves faced near-death experiences as a camp counsellor, learning confidence and appreciation for Western Canada. The military protocols and friendships built there had a lasting impact on his life.

Key Takeaways

These stories highlight how summer jobs can provide valuable lessons in teamwork, communication, and resilience, often shaping future careers in unexpected ways.