The Province is expecting to have a shortage of skilled workers in the coming years.  As a result the ITA is working with School Districts to promote trades to young people.

From January 28 – 31, 2013 students will be participating in YES 2 IT Trades Exploration Day in the Local High School Shop.  This is a joint initiative between School District 53, the Industry Training Authority, Local Trades People, and Local Businesses. There will be 4 local tradesmen coming into the schools to demonstrate their trade, and allow Grade 6 and 7 students hands on experience.  This year we are focusing on the Building Trades with Welding, Construction, Plumbing and Electrical. Businesses and the Industry Training Authority have stepped up to provide materials for this day, so the students can build and take something home.

Oliver Elementary’s Trades Exploration Day will be Tuesday, January 29, 2013.  The Journeyman participating are Gord Young (below) from Young’s Plumbing, Jordan Campbell from School District 53, Dennis Munckhof  (above) from Munckhof Manufacturing and Blake Martin from Eckert Electric.

As part of the YES 2 IT Program we are encouraging parent participation.  This will allow parents to increase their understanding of Trades, Benefits of Trades, Opportunities in Trades and how Trades Programs are option as Post-Secondary Education. By providing the same experience for both parents and students we hope this opens the door to a discussion of Trades as a possible career choice.

It is our hope that students exposure to Trades and High School Shop Facilities will get students interested and excited about being able solve problems and build solutions.If you have any question please contact

Boyd Turnbull
Phone: (250) 499-2727 ext.227
Email : bturnbul@sd53.bc.ca