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Sunday, August 25, 2024

Edvance OYAP Winners!

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

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).

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 will be 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.

This year, we had seven applicants from schools throughout Ontario. Here are the five winners of the CLAC Edvance Skilled Trades Bursary.

Rylee Downie, Electrician, Maranatha Christian Academy

“Rylee is a capable, polite, and respectful individual who follows instructions well,” says Johanna Van Rooyen, cooperative education teacher. “His selection of the electrical trade fits well with his interests and capabilities. I am confident he will thrive in this profession”

Chase Hamstra, Heavy Equipment Operator, Rehoboth Christian School

“Chase has been a joy to have worked with and shows immense promise for future work in the construction and demolition industry,” says Brad Tamminga, operations manager of Demex Group Inc. “Chase has gone above and beyond, and we appreciate him for all the work he has done!”

Aiden Schinkel, Electrician, Hamilton District Christian High School

“Aiden has displayed a solid understanding of electrical concepts and principles,” says Dave Eigenbrood, owner of I.G.I Electric Inc. “During the course of his work, he has been actively engaged in various projects related to both residential and commercial electrical work. We truly believe this work experience will prepare him to excel in an apprenticeship program.”

Christian Schinkel, Electrician, Maranatha Christian Academy

“Christian is a person with great integrity and character. He treats others well and is highly respected among his peers,” says Johanna Van Rooyen, cooperative education teacher. “I have no doubt that he will be a strong asset within whatever company he gains an apprenticeship.”

Joshua Williams, Electrician, Quinte Christian High School

“Josh works hard at all he does,” says Bryan Couperus, cooperative education teacher. “He is a quick learner when it comes to working with his hands, and he demonstrates an understanding of how to use tools appropriately. He also quickly understands the concepts given and the reasoning of doing something along with being able to problem solve when it comes to a task on the job site.”

6 Benefits of OYAP

  1. Allows employers to take on a potential employee on a trial basis before making the commitment to register an individual as an apprentice
  2. Provides development for current team for leadership and supervisory skills
  3. Provides employers with an amazing source of young, enthusiastic, and skilled workers who are ready to start their apprenticeship journey
  4. Shows employers a potential apprentice’s commitment to their pathway in the trades
  5. Allows students to explore career choices within the trades and help lead toward a meaningful career
  6. Increases awareness for potential apprentices on workplace demands and needs

If you’re interested in learning more about OYAP and the opportunities to connect with students in your area, visit oyappajo.com.