Jumpstarting their careers, a group of young aspiring trade workers are lending their hands to Habitat for Humanity. Through a unique trades program, 18 students will spend the remainder of their secondary school days learning the lessons of giving, receiving and building.
School District No. 46, Malaspina University College and Habitat for Humanity Sunshine Coast have come together to offer a course that will give a select group of Grade 12 students the necessary training to go directly into a trade apprenticeship after graduation. "It's about expanding our view of education. There are many students who choose not to go to university or college and it's good for them to know there are other options," said Rick Gibb, the teacher responsible for bringing the program to the Coast. Director Bruce Randall will be guiding the students through the residential construction framing technician/carpentry level 1 course, which is certified by the province's Industry Training Authority. "The certification is a huge deal; it ensures the students recognition within the industry, " Gibb said. Reaching up to $6,500 at some colleges and universities, the cost of the course is waived for high school students through Accelerated Course Entry Into Trades (ACE IT). The only catch is the students have to pass Malaspina's entrance exam, which proved to be no problem for this select group of students. Honing their skills, students will take the knowledge they acquire in the classroom straight into action. They will be constructing the framework for Habitat for Humanity's duplex on Reef Road in Sechelt. "This is an incredible opportunity we have with Habitat for Humanity. They are such a fantastic organization, and we're so excited this has worked out," Gibb said.
Habitat for Humanity is equally as excited about the program. "It's absolutely fantastic and such a great partnership. These students will be involved in helping to solve a small portion of the affordable housing problem we have here on the Coast," said Kenan MacKenzie, chair of Habitat for Humanity Sunshine Coast. The goal, according to MacKenzie, is to build one duplex each year. They are currently looking for a location for next year.
