Sunday, September 17, 2023 CLAC Edvance Skilled Trades Bursary Winners! CLAC is dedicated to strengthening the construction sector in Ontario by encouraging young people to explore and gain experience in the skilled trades. A key pathway for high school students into the construction industry trades is through the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) Newsletters Ontario Construction Each year, CLAC is pleased to award $1,000 to students who are enrolled in a construction trade apprenticeship and are dedicated to becoming journeypersons. Awards are given to up to five applicants who have completed or are completing a cooperative education placement in a construction-related trade through Edvance OYAP for independent schools. Until CLAC stepped up, independent school students were often not able to participate in OYAP. The five winners of the inaugural CLAC Edvance Skilled Trades Bursary are Charlie Burnip, John Paul (JP) Gay, Alyssa Leegstra, Devin Numan, and Samantha Rau. Charlie Burnip, Heavy Equipment Operator, Hamilton District Christian High School “During my relationship with Charlie, I have experienced an individual who shows up on time, works hard, and carries himself politely and respectfully,” says Bob Saddler (Robar Centre president). “He readily helps with any tasks that need to be done, and he accepts feedback and instruction well.” John Paul (JP) Gay, Industrial Electrician, Redeemer Christian High School “JP has proven himself to be responsible, reliable, and dedicated to his work,” says Steven Jaspers-Fayer (co-op coordinator). “He engages in the learning with enthusiasm and a positive outlook and quickly earns the respect and trust of his employers.” Alyssa Leegstra, Welder, Rehoboth Christian School “Alyssa is doing very well and has shown growth as she has learned various skills including welding,” says Dick Naves (secondary vice-principal/ cooperative education teacher). “She has been accepted into the Mohawk College Mechanical Techniques Program (welding and fabrication).” Devin Numan, Plumber, Hamilton District Christian High School “Devin was a dependable, hard working co-op student and employee with promise in the trade,” says Joe Bochek (operations manager at Fortified Plumbing Inc.). “We think he has great potential.” Samantha Rau, Electrician, Maranatha Christian Academy “The incredible work ethic Samantha demonstrated throughout high school in the classroom was easily extended to her work placement with Poirier Electric where she currently thrives in the work setting,” says Johanna Van Rooyen (cooperative education teacher). “Her supervisors have noted her positive attitude and her willingness to complete all tasks set before her.” Samantha Rau Charlie Burnip John Paul (JP) Gay Alyssa Leegstra Devin Numan Previous Next You might be interested in Why We Work Safely 5 Jun 2026 Standing Your Ground, and Staying Steady on the Job 4 Jun 2026 CLAC Partners with Alberta Government to Advance Skilled Trades Training and Accelerate Certification 4 Jun 2026 Strathcona Mechanical Workers Ratify New Agreement Providing Wage, Scheduling Improvements 3 Jun 2026