OPG Showcases Skilled Trades to Over 1,200 Students in Pembroke

Ontario Power Generation (OPG) hosted its Trades Promoting Trades initiative at the Algonquin College Pembroke Campus, attracting over 1,200 students from Renfrew County. The event, designed to inspire students from Grades 7 to 12 to consider careers in the skilled trades, involved interactive demonstrations, hands-on activities, and discussions with industry professionals.

Connecting Students with Future Careers

Jennifer Gardiner, a stakeholder relations representative with OPG, emphasized the initiative’s goal: “This is an opportunity to bring youth in to get a taste of various trades.” This year marks the first time the event has been held in the Ottawa Valley, with OPG previously organizing it in various communities across Ontario, including Kirkland Lake. The multi-day event provided students with a firsthand look at numerous trades through activities like welding simulations, diving demonstrations, and chemical reaction displays.

Participants were encouraged to engage in hands-on learning, trying on personal protective equipment and handling industry tools under supervision. Jodi Bucholtz, the manager of community and student affairs at the Pembroke campus, highlighted the importance of experiential learning, stating, “Experiential learning is our bread and butter.” She noted that the collaboration with local school boards was crucial in bringing this event to the region, allowing students to explore potential career paths in sectors they might not otherwise consider.

Exploring Pathways Beyond High School

Organizers anticipated approximately 1,500 participants over three days, including elementary and secondary school students, college learners, and community members. Bucholtz clarified that the initiative was not a recruitment effort for Algonquin College, but rather a means to educate students about the role colleges play in training individuals for skilled trades.

In addition to OPG staff, around 15 partner companies and contractors contributed their expertise, showcasing a wide range of skilled occupations. OPG representatives highlighted the diverse career options available within the company, including positions such as millwrights, electricians, welders, pipefitters, engineers, and environmental technicians.

For students interested in pursuing trades, educators recommend early exploration of available programs. Bucholtz urged students to connect with their guidance counsellors to discuss pathways, including certifications at colleges, university programs, or apprenticeship routes where they can earn while they learn.

Kristen Niemi, director of education with the Renfrew County District School Board, noted the significance of introducing skilled trades at a younger age. “For our students, it means a lot,” she said, referring to the over 1,200 students from multiple boards who attended the event. The focus on the intermediate division, particularly Grades 7 to 9, aims to excite students about the opportunities within the trades before they begin selecting high school courses.

Niemi added that the initiative stemmed from feedback received during a strategic plan consultation, where families expressed a desire for more information about skilled trades earlier in their educational careers. This collaborative effort involved multiple partners, including the Renfrew County Catholic District School Board and neighboring school systems, all working together to create opportunities for local youth.

As OPG continues to expand its outreach efforts, the Trades Promoting Trades initiative stands as a testament to the importance of fostering interest in skilled trades among young people, ultimately helping to bridge the gap between education and employment in critical sectors.