By Daryl Major

Qualicum district honoured for commitment to student trades training

Jan 14, 2017 | 7:00 AM

PARKSVILLE – A program that introduces high school students to trades has been a big success in the Qualicum School District.

SD69 has the highest rate of registration for the Youth Work in Trades program on Vancouver Island, something Gary Herman, CEO of the Industry Training Authority, says is an impressive feat.

“It just shows the school district’s commitment to getting people started early, while they’re still in high school,” said Herman. “Giving them the exposure to the options of careers in the trades through a partnership and really promoting them as a viable, strong career option.”

As many high school students are at a stage of their life where they don’t know want they want to do after school, Herman says it’s a great introduction to a career after graduation.

“Getting that kind of guidance early and especially with the youth in trades program where you’re actually able to go into an employer’s environment and work as an actual apprentice while you’re still in high school. There’s no substitute for that hands-on experience.”

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It’s also a great platform for youth to show their potential as an employee according to Herman.

“These employers are willing to take on youth while they’re still in high school,” he said.”That allows young people to go in and demonstrate their aptitude, demonstrate their attitude, demonstrate their work ethic. Which as we know is the most important thing in our whole career working for any employer.”

One of those youth who has benefited from the program is Alejandra Nolin, a baker apprentice.

“Thanks to ITA’s youth programs, I was able to discover and work towards a career I am passionate about while still in secondary school,” stated Nolin in a release. “The program has really opened up my eyes to the opportunities available in the skilled trades, and has provided me with all the connections and tools I need to become successful in my trade.”

At a Jan. 11 ceremony, SD69 was presented with a Youth Work in Trades Performance Award and received $5,000 towards developing the program locally.

The Qualicum District is one of seven province wide that received the award.