For four weeks in September and October, the CDSBEO Mobile Training Lab visited schools across Eastern Ontario, giving students the opportunity to explore skilled trades through hands-on learning. The initiative introduced students to skilled trades careers, apprenticeship pathways, Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) programs and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP). 

A key focus of the fall program was providing Grade 7 and 8 girls with opportunities to explore careers in the skilled trades. Through hands-on activities using industry-related tools and equipment, students learned about different trades and gained early exposure to career options they may not have previously considered. 

The activities encouraged students to build confidence, develop problem-solving skills and challenge traditional ideas about who works in the skilled trades. Students also learned about secondary school programs, including SHSM and OYAP, that can help them explore these pathways further. 

Selected students will be invited to compete in an All-Star Building Challenge on March 4, as part of the larger Eastern Ontario SKLZ competition in Cornwall. 

Throughout the program, students took part in activities focused on several areas:   

• Exploring Skilled Trades Careers: Students participated in activities that introduced them to the range of careers available in the skilled trades and the important role skilled workers play in the workforce. 
• Learning About Apprenticeships: Students learned how apprenticeship pathways combine workplace training with in-school learning, allowing them to earn while they learn. 
• Discovering SHSM Opportunities: Students explored how SHSM programs allow them to focus on a sector of interest while gaining industry-recognized certifications, work experience and sector-specific skills. 
• Understanding OYAP: Students learned how OYAP gives them the opportunity to begin an apprenticeship while still in high school, gaining practical experience and making connections with employers. 
• Encouraging Young Women in the Trades: Through hands-on activities, female students were encouraged to explore career options in sectors where women have traditionally been underrepresented. 
• Building Skills Through Hands-On Learning: Working directly with tools, equipment and technology gave students the opportunity to develop practical skills and learn more about skilled trades occupations. 

The Mobile Training Lab will return to the road this spring, visiting more schools and giving students the opportunity to explore skilled trades careers. Schools interested in hosting the trailer next April, May or June are invited to contact Dan Lortie at dan.lortie@cdsbeo.on.ca. 

“It was an absolute pleasure teaching carpentry to several intermediate girls through our CDSBEO Mobile Lab Trailer. The students brought so much enthusiasm, energy, and curiosity to the experience, and it was wonderful to see their genuine interest in exploring the skilled trades! They were respectful, appreciative, eager to learn, embracing each challenge with a positive attitude. They did a fantastic job building their individual projects, and it was incredibly rewarding to see their confidence and skills grow throughout the experience. What a fantastic group of future tradeswomen!  Hope to see you all again someday!” 

Ms. Ronan 

“The rollout of the CDSBEO Mobile Training Lab could not have gone better. It was a privilege to work alongside and learn from so many incredible young people throughout the launch. The enthusiasm, curiosity, and engagement demonstrated by students reinforced the value of providing hands-on career exploration opportunities. This innovative learning tool has tremendous potential to inspire future pathways in the skilled trades, apprenticeship programs, SHSM, and OYAP. I am excited to see the impact it will have as it continues to reach more students and communities across our board.”

Dan Lortie