Ontario’s education minister has been given a first-hand look at potential future skilled trade workers during a visit to Chatham-Kent this week.
Minister of Education Jill Dunlop was joined by officials from the St Clair Catholic District School Board, Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff, and MPP Trevor Jones as she toured Ursuline College Chatham on Monday, focusing on the high school’s skilled trades programs.
During her visit, Dunlop spoke with several Grade 10 and 11 students who were able to showcase their learning through projects in carpentry, welding, hairstyling, and spa treatments.
“It was great to see lots of young women in those trades classes today,” said Dunlop. “We know there’s going to be a lot retiring in the coming years but also the opportunity for more women to get involved in the trades.”
Beginning in September, Ontario secondary school students are now required to complete at least one Technological Education credit in Grade 9 or 10.
“It’s getting them involved and maybe with something they weren’t thinking of doing but now they’re trying and actually getting excited about it, and looking at a possible career in that area,” said Dunlop.
