On February 26, more than 300 high school students from across Niagara will put their skills to the test at the District School Board of Niagara’s (DSBN) 27th annual Technological Skills Challenge hosted by Niagara College.
Taking place at both the Welland Campus and the Daniel J. Patterson Campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, students from 16 DSBN secondary schools will compete in various challenges designed to highlight their technical, artistic and practical application skills learned in the classroom. From web design and development to culinary arts and carpentry, students will participate in more than 30 challenges in NC’s state-of-the-art facilities.
“Niagara College is pleased to partner with the DSBN each year to host the Technological Skills Challenge, which gives students a taste of real, hands-on experience and the career possibilities in the skilled trades,” said Leo Tiberi, Dean of Media, Trades and Technology. “With the support of our faculty, students hone their skills and get a taste of NC life and our program options.”
NC staff and faculty from the schools of Trades, Technology, Media, Culinary Arts, and Environment and Horticulture, as well as the Career Services department, will work alongside the DSBN to help administer the challenges while providing students with valuable feedback to prepare them for successful careers in the skilled trades.
By participating in the challenges, students will have the opportunity to explore careers in the skilled trades and technologies by completing industry-related projects, using industry-standard equipment and adhering to industry regulations. Challenges will be judged by industry mentors, who will provide students with valuable feedback and the opportunity to make valuable industry contacts.
“Throughout the year, students work closely with our highly skilled technology teachers, refining their technical skills and sharpening their problem-solving and leadership abilities,” said Roy Smith, DSBN Technology and SHSM Consultant. “Beyond showcasing their creativity and talent, the DSBN Skills Challenges offer a firsthand look at the exciting possibilities within the skilled trades and technologies and open doors to future careers.”
Gold medalists from the DSBN Skills Challenges will advance to the Skills Ontario Competition (SOC) which will be held in the first week of May at the Toronto Congress Centre. Gold medalists at the SOC will become part of Team Ontario and will have the opportunity to compete at the Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC) during the last week of May.
For more information about the DSBN Technological Skills Challenge, click here.