PVNC Catholic hosts skilled trades fair for Indigenous students with Hiawatha First Nation
In collaboration with Hiawatha First Nation, Ontario Power Generation, the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, and Kigita Mikam Employment Services, Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board hosted its first ever skilled trades fair for Indigenous students across the Board.
“This event is a wonderful example of what we can achieve through collaboration and a shared commitment,” said Director of Education Stephen O’Sullivan. “I would like to acknowledge the partnership between Hiawatha First Nation, Ontario Power Generation, Kigita Mikam Employment Services, the PVNCCDSB, and the many skilled tradespeople who have been so giving out their time and resources to ensure today’s success.”
Hosted in the L.I.F.E. Centre at Hiawatha First Nation, the fair aimed to raise awareness and encourage Indigenous students to participate in opportunities in the skilled trades. Welcoming students from Grade 7 to 12 and their families, various employers from over 140 skilled trades demonstrated various skills and chatted with prospective students, many of which were Indigenous business owners and trades workers themselves.
President and co-owner of Infinity Generation Services, an Indigenous and women-owned business that specializes in multi-trade contracting services, Dayna Pavich expressed her excitement to be part of such an enriching event. “Attending an event like this with students is so engaging, they are very open to conversation and ask such great questions,” said Pavich. “It’s nice to be able to help direct them and introduce them to apprentices that were in their shoes that are also a part of their home community.”
“We know there are over 360,000 job openings across Ontario, with one in five expected to be in the skilled trades by 2025,” Hiawatha Chief Laurie Carr said in a release. “Currently, there are over 140 skilled trades in essential industries such as construction, mechanical, electrical, automotive, and manufacturing. Hosting this career fair ensures our First Nations youth are aware of in-demand careers in the trades, highlighting the vital importance of skilled tradespeople to both our communities and the overall economy.”
Students were given the opportunity to try their hand at participating in some skills required in the skilled trades, such as using a virtual excavator simulator, virtual welding simulator, drones, spray painting, and many more. Vendors were also available to answer any questions regarding apprenticeships, courses, and general career paths.
Grade 11 student Hex Fenton-Drew from St. Mary Catholic Secondary School is looking forward to entering the electrical trades program through the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program. “Electrical gives me the opportunity to do trades which I love, and allows me to make accommodations for myself if I need to,” said Fenton-Drew. “Trades are fun, they’re hands-on, that’s why I’m here.”
Indigenous students from all over the region were invited to take part in the skilled trades fair, as this event was committed to the empowerment of Indigenous youth in local schools.