SUPERIOR-GREENSTONE DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
SGDSB Hosts Trade and Technology Career Exploration Event and Celebrate Success at Skills Ontario Competitions

The Superior-Greenstone District School Board (SGDSB) is proud to spotlight the extraordinary experiential learning opportunities that have recently empowered students to explore skilled trades and technology pathways. From immersive site visits and hands-on events to showcasing their talents on the provincial stage, SGDSB students are making big moves in tech and trades.

L to R Front: Jamie McMillan (Skilled Trades Professional, Advocate & Inspirational Speaker), Shawna Grouette (SGDSB OYAP Recruiter & Co-op Lead), Roger Latourneau (MRHS Dual Credit Teacher), John Bernier, Maurice (LSHS Dual Credit Teacher), Thiboutot (LSHS Tech Teacher), Erin Langevin (NRDHS Culinary Teacher), Wayne Pittman (MNHS Culinary Teacher))

L to R Back: Ken MacIntyre  (MRHS Dual Credit Teacher), Alex Graham (Skills Ontario), Nancy Ramsdale, Stefan Rohner (MRHS Tech Teacher), Louis Paleczny (MNHS Tech Teacher)

On April 4, students from across SGDSB visited the Trades Building at Confederation College, where they explored diverse post-secondary programs in skilled trades and met with the Associate Dean, who praised their curiosity and insightful questions. This experience helped students visualize their future in trades and built confidence in exploring hands-on career pathways.

The following day, on April 5, students proudly represented SGDSB at the Skills Ontario Qualifying Competition. Brody Pittman-Willoughby and Levi Patterson of Marathon High School competed in the welding category and Layton Friedrich and Dylan Madge from Lake Superior High School competed in carpentry.

These students demonstrated exceptional creativity, precision, and dedication. A special congratulations goes to Layton Friedrich, who placed third in individual carpentry and represented SGDSB at the Skills Ontario Competition in Toronto, May 5-7, 2025.

SGDSB extends heartfelt thanks to mentors Mr. Rohner, and Mr. Thiboutot, whose guidance played a critical role in preparing students for success at the competition. Students prepared for these competitions demonstrated a determined and consistent work ethic and practiced for months leading up to the event.

At the Skills Ontario Competition, Young Women's and FNMI Student Conferences in Toronto, SGDSB's spirit shone bright. Lake Superior High School Students Mason Mineau and Rachel Spencer competed as a team alongside Layton Friedrich, showcasing their carpentry skills with passion and pride. Marathon High School Student Keenan Skworchinski was the first student from our Board to compete in the Electrical Installation. SGDSB was also represented at the Young Women's Conference and FNMI Student Conference, where students explored hands-on exhibits and career opportunities through the Skills Ontario Career Exploration Showcase an inspiring event that continues to open doors for youth across Ontario.

Technology Teacher Stefan Rohner at Marathon High School stated that, "Competing at this level would not have been possible without the generous support of our partners. Barrick-Hemlo and Guilleven International provided funding for essential tools and materials, which will continue to benefit students in future Skills Competitions. Community members Ken MacIntyre, Tom Giesen, and Tony Pruys also dedicated significant time to mentoring and preparing students. Their combined efforts played a key role in helping our students build the skills and confidence needed to succeed at regional and provincial levels. We are deeply grateful to all who contributed to making this opportunity a reality."

These experiences culminated in another major event on May 13 at Manitouwadge High School, where over 100 Grade 7 and 8 students from Marathon, Terrace Bay, and Manitouwadge came together for the SGDSB OYAP: Trade & Technology Career Exploration and Transition Event.

With support from Skills Ontario, high school tech and dual credit educators, and trades advocate Jamie McMillan Skilled Trades Professional, Advocate and Inspiration Speaker, students participated in high-impact workshops, mentorship conversations, and interactive learning opportunities. Students also had the opportunity to meet their future high school tech teachers and learn about the many programs and clubs available to them.

Students rotated through engaging workshops designed to give them first-hand experience with tools, techniques, and concepts used in various skilled trades and tech-related careers. Beyond the hands-on learning, the event also provided students with the chance to meet their future high school tech educators, learn about co-op and dual credit programs, and connect with mentors who shared real-world insights and encouragement.

"This event - and everything leading up to it - is a powerful example of how experiential learning connects students to meaningful career pathways," said Shawna Grouette, SGDSB OYAP Recruiter & Cooperative Education Lead.

"We're deeply thankful to all the partners, educators, and students who contributed to these events. They have truly showcased what's possible for our students in the skilled trades and technology sectors."

All of these initiatives support Superior-Greenstone District School Board's Multi-Year Strategic Plan, particularly the pillar of Meaningful Community Connections and Partnerships. They reflect the board's commitment to helping students uncover their passions, explore all pathways, and build joyful, purposeful learning experiences that lead to future success.