November is Apprentice Recognition Month and we certainly recognize the more than 60 Delta students (and their talented instructors) who are involved in Apprentice programs currently as part of their high school education! Students are kick-starting their careers by either working in a skilled trade or beginning a post-secondary apprenticeship program. Both programs earn students high school credits!
This semester, eight Grade 11 and 12 students from high schools across the district are participating in the Youth Train in Trades Auto Service Technician program at Seaquam Secondary, which has been designated as one of the Industry Training Authority’s (ITA) official training locations. Train in Trades is the technical training component of an industry training program (apprenticeship) for secondary school students. In February, more students will be starting their journey in the fields of electrical, carpentry, metal fabrication, welding and plumbing.
“Students are learning to examine, test and repair the parts on cars,” said Mr. Ryall, the program instructor. “Often they use computerized diagnostic equipment to test, adjust and repair key vehicle components such as struts, brakes, suspensions, steering systems, exhausts and electrical systems. The great thing about this program is that the curriculum they learn here at Seaquam is the same as that offered by any post-secondary institution in B.C.”
Most of the students applied to the course as they are thinking of pursuing a career as an Auto Service Technician. “Taking this course while still at high school provides a great opportunity to test it out and see what working in this trade fulltime would be like,” said Tanvir. Students who are successful in their application will have their tuition paid for, and this can save families up to $3,500 in tuition!
“It all sounds very simple, but when you actually get into it, the auto technician service program is far more complicated than you first realize,” said Balroop. Despite the heavy workload, students are finding it an extremely positive experience. “There’s always something new to learn. It’s great to get involved in real-life learning that will have value outside of the classroom,” said Rohan.
Despite being from different high schools, thanks to their common interest in cars and shared experience on the course, the eight students have formed a tight knit group. “We’re like a small family – we’re together all day. In fact, we probably see each other more than we see our own families,” they quipped.
When asked what advice they had for students thinking about getting involved in the program next year, they said: “Come with an open mind and be ready to learn. If you’re not sure about something, ask! And don’t over tighten screws and bolts.” That is good advice that we could likely all benefit from!
The Youth Train in Trades program enables students to complete the in-class portion of a Level 1 apprenticeship while earning their dogwood graduation credits, giving them a valuable head start on their apprenticeship. Applications for apprenticeship programs should be submitted before Spring Break 2023. For more information, please visit https://deltalearns.ca/careers/
If students are curious about any of the career program options that Delta offers, they should see their school Career Programs Facilitator for more information! Each school has staff that can help students apply into the partnership programs!
Back row: Mr. Ryall, Akashdeep, Nikolas, Tyler, Balroop and Lucas
Front row: Rohan and Tanvir
Not pictured: Noah
‘Supporting’ their future career