The Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board hosted a Young Women in the Trades Day on Wednesday at St. Mary's College.
A total of 78 Grade 7 students participated in the event.
Following is a full release from the school board on the event:
The Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board (HSCDSB) is committed to ensuring young women are aware of the vast opportunities a career in the trades can offer. On Wednesday, Nov. 27, 2024, the board hosted a Young Women in the Trades Day at St. Mary’s College (SMC), bringing together 78 students in Grade 7 eager to explore the skilled trades and learn about the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP).
The event aimed to inspire students to view skilled trades as a rewarding career path, while challenging stereotypes and showcasing the increasing success of women in these fields. Through personal stories and hands-on experiences, the day encouraged students to imagine themselves flourishing in skilled trades.
“Focusing on young women for this event allowed us to create a safe, inclusive space where students could explore, ask questions, and engage in hands-on activities,” said Paula Trainor, HSCDSB Experiential Learning and Pathways Lead. “Introducing students to the trades opens doors to in-demand careers while breaking down barriers and inspiring a more diverse workforce.”
The day began with a keynote from Cali-Anna Elliott, a second-year 313A refrigeration apprentice who graduated in 2023 from Cambrian College. Now working as a refrigeration apprentice at Henderson Metal, Elliott shared her journey, demonstrating the potential for women in trades.
"Working in the trades allows me to do what I love every day, turning my passion into purpose,” said Elliott. “When women enter the trades, we're not only challenging stereotypes; we’re building a strong future where skill, diversity, and resilience shape industries. Empowering women in these fields strengthens our communities and creates endless opportunities for generations to come. So, the question isn’t why get into the trades. It’s why not?”
Following the keynote, students rotated through three interactive sessions: automotive/welding, construction, and hydraulics. In automotive/welding, students learned to change a tire, weld their initials onto metal coupons, and use a plasma cutter to trim their creations. The construction session allowed students to craft live-edge charcuterie boards. In hydraulics, led by Skills Ontario presenter Katie Cameron, students built a mini hydraulic cherry picker capable of lifting small items like Legos. Cameron also provided insights into careers in trades, further inspiring students to consider these fields.
“This event was a powerful opportunity to showcase the immense potential and rewarding careers within the skilled trades to a motivated group of young women,” said Domenic Rosso, Principal of Holy Angels Learning Centre/HSCDSB OYAP Recruiter. “Exposing students to these possibilities early on is crucial, as it demonstrates how programs like OYAP can provide pathways to meaningful careers and success.”
A special thank you goes to the dedicated staff who helped make this event possible, including Darryl Wardell, Alar Poldmaa, Kelly McKay, and Vince Pistor. Their support and expertise were integral to the success of the day. We would also like to extend our gratitude to the Curriculum Department for their continued collaboration and effort in bringing this event to life.
The HSCDSB, in partnership with SMC, is also committed to offering similar opportunities to elementary students in Grades 6 through 8 across Sault Ste. Marie through the SMC Skills Camp, further building awareness and excitement about careers in the skilled trades.