Sisters in the Brotherhood: Northeastern students become carpenters for a day

Female students in Grades 7 and 8 at Northeastern Elementary School spent the day as carpenters at the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America Local 2486 training centre in Azilda on March 27, 2019.

“Skilled trades are in high demand,” says Dana Kinsella, Specialist High Skills Major and Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program Co-ordinator for Rainbow District School Board. “This opportunity exposed female students to the trades as a potential career pathway.”

The day began with a union history lesson from representative Rheal Gélinas. Students received safety equipment, including steel toe caps, hard hats and safety glasses, as well as a “Sisters in the Brotherhood” t-shirt to take home.

Using tape measurers, carpenter’s squares, and a variety of math skills, students were able to frame a wall with a door opening, attach it to an existing wall, and drywall the two complete walls together.

Karissa Nelles, a Grade 7 student, will apply her learning at home. “I am excited because this will help me build a fort at home.”

Grade 8 student, Kaylie O’Brien, proudly took a photo of her completed work. “I am excited to show my dad that I can install a door.”

“Students truly enjoyed challenging themselves and pushing their limits,” says Dana Kinsella. “It was a fun-filled day of communication, problem-solving, teamwork and smiles.”

This experiential learning opportunity was made possible by the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP).

OYAP is a Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities program aimed at providing Grade 11 and 12 students with opportunities to train as apprentices in a number of skilled occupations while they obtain their Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

OYAP partners with employers who are committed to offering apprenticeship opportunities to students who demonstrate an aptitude and interest in skilled occupations through co-op placements. The program meets the objectives of secondary school reform by providing students with a school-to-work transition.

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Media Contact:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor
Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171 ext. 7217.