Skilled trades career fair held at North Star

A skilled trades career fair recently was held at North Star High School. Submitted photo

The Canadian Association of Mold Makers (CAMM) have been travelling to high schools in the area with North Star High School being the latest stop.

The career fair was held recently with Grade 9 and 10 students able to come out and learn about careers in the manufacturing and skilled trades sector.

CAMM executive director Nicole Vlanich said it was a way to bridge the gap between students and the industries, adding it gives students ideas on what career pathways they wish to explore and the high school courses they would need to get there.

Students enjoyed hearing the information that was presented, she added.

“They were attentive, receptive and they asked good questions,” said Vlanich. “They listened very well. I think it went very well for the kids. It went very smoothly.”

The grade levels that attend the open houses depend on the school, but North Star opted for Grade 9 and 10 students. The thinking is that it allows students time to figure out what courses and programs to take.

“It’s important information for all grades but it is important to get the information out early when they are selecting their classes,” she said.

In addition to schools from the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) and Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board (WECDSB), Vlanich added they are speaking to schools in the Burlington area as well.

Partners include Workforce Windsor-Essex, Cavalier Manufacturing, Integrity Tool and Mold and the Womens’ Enterprise Skills Training (WEST).

Jason Lepain, Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) co-ordinator with the GECDSB, said it was good to see connections being made between the skilled trade industry and students. He said industry professionals are helping to promote skilled trades and letting students know what is out there.

“It’s a great opportunity,” said Lepain.

North Star manufacturing teacher Glen Holden said the students get to learn about what careers are out there and how lucrative they can be. Holden added it was the first time CAMM brought such a career fair to North Star High School.

Skilled trades career fair held at North Star

By Ron Giofu