Pembina Hills is excited to celebrate Cecily Plitt, a Barrhead Composite High School graduate, whose hard work and passion for skilled trades have earned her the 2025 High School Apprenticeship Scholarship valued at $1,000!
Cecily with her certificate
Plitt is a shining example of the opportunities made possible through the division's Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP). She joined Pembina Hills' Transportation Department in Barrhead as a RAP student in February 2024, quickly proving herself to be motivated, capable, and eager to learn. After completing her RAP hours in July 2025, she continued seamlessly into her apprenticeship and is now working toward becoming a Heavy Equipment Technician. Her next milestone is already in view attending the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) in March 2026 to further her technical training.
Her achievements were celebrated at a province-wide recognition event hosted by CAREERS: The Next Generation on November 14, 2025, at the Edmonton Convention Centre, shining a spotlight on the bright futures of Alberta's young apprentices.
The High School Apprenticeship Scholarship celebrates graduates who excel in RAP and Career and Technology Studies (CTS). Because of her dedication and outstanding performance, Plitt will receive Alberta Government support as she continues her post-secondary apprenticeship pathway.
Shantelle Haitel, PHSD Director of Transportation, shared her enthusiasm:
"She's been a wonderful addition to our team, and we look forward to seeing her confidence and skill set grow over the next couple of years."
She also highlighted the tremendous impact of participating in RAP:
"When CAREERS reached out about taking on a RAP student, we were facing staffing challenges and a province-wide shortage of qualified heavy equipment technicians. We believed that partnering with RAP would support both students and our division and it absolutely has.
With our shops located close to our high schools, students can gain meaningful, hands-on experience without missing academic time. The results have been incredible. Both of our apprentices have now transitioned into full-time roles after graduating. It's a program we would gladly participate in again when our shops have capacity."
Stories like Plitt's highlight the power of RAP to ignite student passion, prepare young people for in-demand careers, and build strong connections between schools and industry.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Cecily and celebrate the continued success of the RAP program in supporting students as they launch into rewarding careers in the trades.
