Roughly 75 local high school students in the township of Russell recently attended a Skilled Trades Discovery Day. Organized by the municipality’s economic development team in partnership with Skills Canada – Ontario, Russell’s Skilled Trades Discovery Day was held Oct. 7 at the 417 Industrial Park in Vars. Students experienced hands-on simulations for trade jobs thanks to Skills Ontario’s new Trades and Tech Truck. Courtesy Photo

VARS – Roughly 75 local high school students in the township of Russell recently attended a Skilled Trades Discovery Day.

“By promoting our local trade industry, we encourage youth to work in our community after they graduate and help fill the labour shortage,” a municipal statement said. “Skilled trades account for almost 43 per cent of economic activity within the township of Russell.”

Organized by the municipality’s economic development team in partnership with Skills Canada – Ontario, Russell’s Skilled Trades Discovery Day was held Oct. 7 at the 417 Industrial Park in Vars. Students learned about potential trade careers in the community, experienced hands-on simulations for trade jobs such as welding and operating heavy machinery thanks to Skills Ontario’s new Trades and Tech Truck, and went on facility tours of Battleshield Industries Limited, Kenworth Ontario, Thermo King, and Nordik Windows and Doors.

“We’re very pleased to work with the township of Russell to deliver important events like these,” Skills Ontario CEO Ian Howcroft said. “Inspiring youth and setting future skilled trade and technology leaders up for success is crucial. Skilled trades and technologies play an imperative role in our lives and continuing to support and build these fields benefits us all.”