NIAGARA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Holy Cross celebrates grand opening of new Innovation Technology Space

Think back to when you were in high school. It wasn't so long ago - maybe even within this century - that technology courses were often called "shop" classes and were dirty, crowded spaces. They were considered vocational courses, meaning that academic students wouldn't likely set foot inside.  

Fast forward to 2025 and today's grand opening of phase one of Holy Cross's new Innovation Technology Space.  

It's bright and clean, filled with state-of-the-art equipment dedicated to plumbing, heating, and air conditioning and electrical courses. Created in partnership with the Niagara-Halton Skilled Trades Academy and Enercare, with tools supplied by long-term partner Milwaukee Tools, the space will allow generations of students to get hands-on experience in the skilled trades before they leave high school. 

Carol Wayland, owner of the Niagara-Halton Skilled Trades Academy (NHSTA) immediately saw the value in a partnership with Niagara Catholic for the dedicated learning space. Having students exposed to learning about HVAC - one of the programs offered by NHSTA - helps them build potential students who find a love and an aptitude for a trade.  

Enercare is also a supporter of the program; noting that students who get excited about HVAC in high school, then go to a trade school or college for the program, create a steady workforce for them.  

Regional Chair Jim Bradley, St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe, and Danny Di Lorenzo, Chair of the Niagara Catholic Board of Trustees, were on hand for the event.  

In their remarks, each commented on the importance of having a skilled workforce in Niagara.  

Chair Bradley noted that the new space offers students "insight into perspective into Niagara's economy and opportunities," benefiting students and employers, allowing them to live and work in Niagara.  

Mayor Siscoe said skilled tradespeople are in demand in jobs they couldn't imagine, such as building inspectors, noting that "without building inspectors, a three-year build can turn into a five-year one." 

That was echoed by Holy Cross Principal Adele Filice, who pointed out that skilled trades touch every aspect of our lives, from the homes we live in, to the roads we drive, and the services that we use. 

Chair Di Lorenzo spoke to the power of partnerships such as these to benefit students.  

"Today's celebration is a powerful example of what happens when education and business come together," he said. This incredible partnership is what led to the creation of this space which will benefit students for many, many years to come. On behalf of Niagara Catholic, thank you for seeing the importance of making these connections and for your investment in this room." 

In her remarks, Superintendent of Education Lee Ann Forsyth-Sells also spoke about the outstanding opportunity for Holy Cross students, inviting them to the front of the room to be recognized.  

"This is who we do it all for," she said." 

 hank you to Culinary Arts students at Holy Cross, under the guidance of teacher Chris Beatty, for preparing a fantastic lunch for the guests. Culinary Arts is another skill high in demand in Niagara, and our students are developing incredible culinary and baking skills in all Niagara Catholic secondary schools.

Holy Cross's Innovation Technology Space is the second in Niagara Catholic - the first is the Launch Centre at Seaway Mall used by Notre Dame College School students. Phase two of the Innovation Technology Space at Holy Cross - manufacturing - will open in 2026.