After more than five decades of dedication, Brother Paul Gaudet has officially retired, closing an extraordinary chapter of service to his trade, his country, and his Union.
Paul began his career in 1974 as a member of Local 1723, working out of the Naval Armament Depot (NAD) as an Armament Fitter. Early on, he demonstrated a strong commitment to his fellow workers by serving as a Shop Steward, a role that reflected his lifelong dedication to union leadership and member advocacy.
In approximately 1985, Paul transitioned into a supervisory role, where he served until 1995, navigating the challenges of workforce reductions with professionalism and integrity. Following this period, he transferred to Bedford Magazine, where he spent close to ten years as a technician maintaining torpedoes. When torpedo maintenance operations were terminated, Paul once again adapted, returning to the dockyard as a Periscope Maintenance Technician.
Throughout his postings, Paul played a critical role in Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) work for the Oberon- and Victoria-class submarines, contributing his expertise to projects vital to Canada’s naval operations. As these long-term projects were completed and workloads diminished, Paul returned in 2010 to CFAD, where he served as an Instrumentation Maintenance Technologist. He concluded his distinguished civil service career with an incredible 51 years of service.
In parallel with his professional career, Paul was deeply committed to the Union. He served for many years as Secretary-Treasurer of Local 2797 and previously held the same role with Local 1723 until the two locals merged. Paul was also a longtime Shop Steward for both Local 1723 and 2797, always standing up for members with fairness, compassion, and resolve.
Beyond the local level, Paul’s leadership extended across Atlantic Canada through his service as President of the Maritime Council of Machinists (MCM), now known as the IAM Atlantic Council, where he worked tirelessly to strengthen unity and collaboration among IAM members throughout the region.
On his retirement, David Chartrand, General Vice-President of the IAM Union in Canada reflected on the lasting impact of Paul’s leadership:
“Paul is known across the territory for his warmth and kindness, and also for bringing IAM members together in Atlantic Canada through his leadership at the IAM Atlantic Council. We sincerely thank Paul for his distinguished service and dedication to his vocation, to his community, and to his Union siblings. We wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement. Congratulations.”
Paul Gaudet leaves behind a legacy defined by service, solidarity, and quiet leadership. His contributions to the workplace and to the IAM will continue to be felt for years to come. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Brother Gaudet and wish him nothing but health, happiness, and fulfillment in this next chapter of life.
Congratulations, Paul, on a truly remarkable career.
