Editor:
Maritime Industries Services Training (MIST) is an award-winning vocational, high school, program offered to at-risk youth on the Sunshine Coast.
There are many reasons why MIST has been successful in providing youth the opportunity to earn 14 credits towards high school graduation requirements as well as employment ready certifications such as bronze medallion, pleasure craft operators certificate, restricted radio operators certificate, WHMIS, Canadian Yachting Association Basic Cruising standard to 36 feet.
MIST's success is due primarily to the community partners with which we work. The Sunshine Coast Power and Sail Squadron, Auxiliary Coast Guard, B.C. Ferries, Sunshine Coast Regional District, Sechelt Aquatic Centre, Gibsons Sailing School, Coastal Craft and School District No. 46 all help to support our youth to feel valued and part of the community.
Our newest community partner, the District of Sechelt, has awarded the MIST program with a place to moor our school boat at the government dock and financial support to maintain the boat. Through this generous support the mayor and council have spoken loudly that at-risk youth matter and are supported in our community.
Richard Biel
MIST program co-ordinator
