Two dozen southern Alberta high school students are getting a better understanding of the trades – as well as potential future careers – by participating in Lethbridge College’s Introduction to the Trades Dual Credit Pathway Program.
Presented in partnership with Career Transitions and area school divisions, the newly developed, 15-week course highlights all trades programs offered at Lethbridge College: Agricultural Technician, Automotive Service Technician, Heavy Equipment Technician, Parts Technician, Carpentry, Baking, Cooking, Electrical, Powerline Technician, Plumbing, Welding and Wind Turbine Technician.
Course format is a combination of asynchronous and in-person learning, where students review theory online and then visit campus for hands-on application under the direction of Centre for Trades faculty. Students will visit the college eight times this semester.
“This course is an amazing collaboration with school divisions and industry,” says Sheldon Anderson, Dean, Centre for Trades. “We are helping students explore as many different trade opportunities as possible in a practical way. Students will be able to identify a career path earlier in life, which can lead to advancement opportunities in their chosen field earlier than ever before.”
Interest in Introduction to the Trades has been strong, with six southern Alberta school districts taking part in its initial offering – the Lethbridge School Division, Holy Spirit Catholic School Division, Palliser Regional Schools, Horizon School Division, Livingstone Range School Division and Westwind School Division. Each district was allotted four student spaces and the selection process was very competitive.
“We’re thrilled with the level of interest this new program has received,” says Joelle Reynolds, Associate Dean – Youth Initiatives, Centre for Trades. “The course filled up quickly, and we’re looking at expanding capacity in the future. We are also currently developing additional opportunities for high school students to specialize in trades and gain pre-employment training.”
Lethbridge College also offers dual credit courses in several other program areas. Anyone interested in learning more can visit lethpolytech.ca/programs/dual-credit.