On December 16, the Honourable Jill Dunlop, Minister of Education, visited Ursuline College Chatham (UCC) to experience firsthand the school’s outstanding skilled trades programming. Accompanied by MPP Trevor Jones, Mayor Darrin Canniff, Director of Education Scott Johnson, Superintendent of Education Chris Kehoe, UCC Principal Lisa Harnarine, and Vice Principals Tiffany Clarke, Peter Cowan, and Katie Simon, Minister Dunlop toured classrooms where students demonstrated their expertise across a variety of trades, including construction, manufacturing, and hairstyling and aesthetics.
The day began with students in the Grade 11 Construction Technology class showcasing their carpentry, electrical systems, and plumbing skills. As they built everything from sheds to furniture, students shared insights into their training in technical drawing, building codes, and materials. In the Grade 10 Manufacturing Technology class, students presented their work in machining, welding, and vacuum forming, explaining how these skills directly translate into real-world careers. Minister Dunlop also had the opportunity to engage with Grade 10 Hairstyling and Aesthetics students, who used industry-standard techniques to demonstrate spa services, including hair styling, manicures, and facials.
Minister Dunlop emphasized the increasing demand for skilled trades workers, noting, “When you look around at all the things being built in this province—homes, highways, new schools, hospitals—we need skilled trade workers, and we know many will be retiring in the coming years.” She also expressed her appreciation for the strong representation of young women in the skilled trades classrooms, adding, “It was really great to see so many young women in the skilled trades classes.”
UCC’s hands-on learning approach provides students with invaluable opportunities to explore potential career paths. Many students expressed excitement about pursuing skilled trades, while others shared how the experience continues to shape their decisions for post-secondary education.
Director of Education Scott Johnson called the visit an honour and an exciting opportunity for UCC students. “It was a privilege to host Minister Dunlop and showcase the incredible talent and dedication of our UCC students and staff,” he said. “We’re proud to highlight the innovative programs and opportunities available in our schools, and to celebrate the potential of the next generation of skilled professionals.”
The visit also included discussions about the broader impact of skilled trades education on Ontario’s economic growth, with Minister Dunlop emphasizing the provincial mandate for all Grade 9 students to take a mandatory technical education course. This initiative aims to spark interest and create pathways into skilled trades for the next generation.
The St. Clair Catholic District School Board extends its heartfelt gratitude to the UCC school community for warmly welcoming the Minister and showcasing the best of what UCC has to offer. It was truly a Lancer Proud day!
