St. Mary Catholic Secondary School Inspires Next Generation of Tradespeople at Collaborative Workshop

May 1, 2026

The sparks of future careers were ignited this week as St. Mary Catholic Secondary School hosted a hands-on Skilled Trades Workshop, bringing Grade 8 students and their parents into the shop to experience the tools of the trade firsthand.

The event, held on Monday evening (April 27, 2026), was designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and career reality. Participants traded traditional pens and paper for hammers and welding torches, working side-by-side on technical projects in the school’s specialized facilities. The initiative emphasized the growing importance of trades-based learning in the secondary curriculum.

Under the guidance of staff, the Grade 8 students, who are currently preparing for their transition into secondary school, got a taste of the construction and welding sectors.

The significance of the workshop was reflected in the strong presence of Board and provincial leadership. 

David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, joined the families on the shop floor to observe the projects in progress. Representing PVNC Catholic, Director of Education Stephen O’Sullivan was in attendance alongside Board Chairperson Kevin MacKenzie and Vice-Chairperson Jenny Leahy. Trustees Loretta Durst and Kathleen Tanguay were also on hand to support the initiative, highlighting a unified commitment to expanding vocational opportunities for students.

As the session wrapped up, the success of the night was measured not just in the projects completed, but in the conversations started between parents and children regarding the career pathways available right in their own community.