By Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools (RDCRS) is introducing an exciting new program that gives high school students hands-on experience in the construction industry. The initiative, known as “Building Skills Together,” is a collaboration with Eagle Builders, a Blackfalds-based leader in the prefabricated concrete industry, and aims to provide students with a comprehensive, immersive learning experience.
A New Path to Skilled Trades
During a board meeting on October 29, RDCRS Superintendent Kathleen Finnigan shared details about the program, which offers high school students the opportunity to attend a five-day camp that focuses on foundational construction skills. The program, which is open to a select group of students, will provide them with an introduction to the practical skills used in forming and constructing concrete components for building projects.
Finnigan expressed her enthusiasm about the new educational opportunity, saying, “RDCRS is excited to launch our first ‘Building Skills Together’ camp.” She went on to explain that the initiative is specifically designed for students interested in construction and engineering fields. Through the program, students will gain exposure to skilled trades while learning about the various aspects of construction, from concrete formwork to the nuts and bolts of the industry.
“Students will have the opportunity to get involved with the work of construction, which will spark interest in future careers in the trades, while also experiencing real-world work in a supportive and educational environment,” Finnigan said.
Developing Skilled Workers for the Future
The primary goals of the “Building Skills Together” program are to inspire students to consider careers in skilled trades, provide them with mentorship, and foster networking opportunities with industry professionals. By working closely with Eagle Builders, students will gain direct access to experts in the field, helping them understand what it’s like to work in construction and giving them a leg up as they pursue potential careers in the industry.
“This program is an invaluable opportunity for students to explore the construction industry,” said Finnigan. “It allows them to gain hands-on experience and form connections with people who can guide them in their future career paths.”
The program is part of a broader initiative by RDCRS to provide students with diverse career-oriented experiences, preparing them for the realities of today’s job market. Finnigan noted that RDCRS is eager to continue expanding these types of educational programs that offer students valuable real-world experience.
Collaboration with Sky Wings Aviation Offers Unique Career Pathways
In addition to the new construction skills program, RDCRS has also teamed up with Chinook’s Edge School Division to offer a unique aviation ground school program in partnership with Sky Wings Aviation. The “Flying High” program, which is available to students in the region, covers a wide array of aviation topics, including the theory of flight, air law, meteorology, and navigation. The program also includes practical lessons in communications, pilot decision-making, and performance charts.
A dozen students have already participated in the Flying High program, which has proven to be a valuable learning experience. According to Finnigan, the collaboration with Sky Wings Aviation offers students an exciting opportunity to explore the aviation field and potentially pursue careers as pilots or in related aviation professions.
“This collaboration with Sky Wings Aviation is an invaluable investment in student learning,” Finnigan said. “It provides a unique opportunity for growth and career development in the aviation industry.”
Empowering Students with Real-World Skills
Both the construction and aviation programs reflect RDCRS’s commitment to providing students with access to cutting-edge, career-oriented education that prepares them for success in a rapidly changing workforce. By offering specialized training and mentorship, RDCRS is helping students build the skills and networks they need to thrive in high-demand industries.
With programs like “Building Skills Together” and “Flying High,” RDCRS is shaping the future of its students, opening doors to exciting, hands-on career opportunities that could have a lasting impact on their lives.