The Introduction to Carpentry Dual Credit district program is back in action following the summer break and with under a month into the school year, students are already receiving important hands-on experience.
To share information on this exciting opportunity, WCDSB sat down with Sarah Gammie our Dual Credit Lead Resource Teacher, for a Q and A about the Introduction to Carpentry Dual Credit district program.
For those who may not be familiar with the program, can you give an overview of the Introduction to Carpentry Dual Credit?
The Introduction to Carpentry Dual Credit is a district program that is offered to senior students from all four of our high schools. This program teaches students how to build a home from the ground up. Students travel by bus 2 mornings a week to the Conestoga College Dearborn Campus where they get hands-on experience with framing, roofing, windows, siding, drywall and trim work. Students will complete two courses in the college program, Interior Finishing and Exterior Finishing, each counting for 1 high school and 1 college credit. The Dual Credit program is paired with a Technology Design Course that is taught by Alfred Cutajar, a high school teacher at Bishop Macdonell High School. Students attend BM the other 3 days a week for Quad 1 and focus their learning on engineering, architecture, and design. This three-credit package offers students an excellent introduction to the carpentry and construction industry.
Is there anything different from last year? New to this year specifically?
To ensure the safety of students on campus, class sizes are capped at 12. Students attending campus will eventually be required to be fully vaccinated and in compliances with all of Conestoga's Covid-19 Safety Policies.
Why is it beneficial for students to participate in this program?
This program is a great opportunity to try out a variety of trades related to carpentry and construction. Students learn what is like to be on a college campus, learning from college instructors, all with the support of a high school teacher. It is the perfect transition from high school to college.
What would be a potential career path for students in this program?
Students who take the Intro to Carpentry Program could get into a multitude of construction or trade related careers. Some possible careers include framing, roofing, carpentry, drywalling, renovation/contracting, drafting and design.
What has the response been from new students? Alum of the program?
Students are happy to be on a college campus and trying something new. They often thrive in the mature setting, while learning with their minds and their hands. Dual Credit gives them the confidence they need to take that next step.
Is it too late for someone to sign up for next semester?
The Intro to Carpentry program runs first semester only but there are spaces available in some of our other Skilled Trade related Dual Credit programs running second semester. See your guidance counselor right away if you are interested. Grade 11's are encouraged to keep this opportunity in mind for next fall.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Females in the Trades are needed! More and more companies are looking to add females to their team and women offer a new perspective on the industry. If you are interested in the trades, the Dual Credit programs are a great way to gain some experience without the commitment.
For more information on the Introduction to Carpentry or any of the Dual Credit program, see your guidance counselor or email Sarah Gammie, Dual Credit Lead Resource Teacher for Wellington Catholic District School Board at [email protected]. You can also follow along with Sarah on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Sarah68212695