Twenty-four carpentry apprentice graduates are starting their careers with a new Skilsaw circular saw, courtesy of two local businesses.
The class is the second to graduate from the Georgina Trades Training Inc. now in its newly renovated headquarters on Baseline Road in Sutton. The public grand opening was held Saturday.
The gifts were presented during the end-of-term ceremony last Thursday night attended by family, friends and members of the GTTI board.
GTTI president Gerry Brouwer called the night an outstanding success and thanked Schell Ace Lumber Building Centre in Sutton and contractor Glen Rye of The 2X4 Company for their generosity to the newly minted carpenter apprentices.
The class included 23 men and one woman, Stephanie Davies who, with Neil Rothwell, were the class valedictorians.
The program was offered in partnership with George Brown College.
GTTI’s first class of automotive service technician apprentices, in partnership with Centennial College, graduated earlier this year with each finding immediate employment.
GTTI executive director Art Niezen said the institute is talking with York University’s development office in hopes of offering online courses at its computer lab to be located in the new building.
“It is hoped students will be able to complete a significant part of a university degree through this type of distance learning, thereby realizing savings in travel and time,” he said.
The school has Internet service through South Shore Community Broadband.
GTTI is also negotiating with Seneca College for partnerships with apprenticeship and general interest courses in early childhood education, small engines mechanic and welding.
GTTI is offering a personal support worker program in association with the York Region District School Board. Registration is Aug. 26 and includes an information session at the 5207 Baseline Rd. location.
This is a full-time, six-month course, Monday to Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., leading to a personal support worker certificate, as well as earning secondary school credits if necessary.
Personal support workers are in high demand in Ontario to meet the need in homes for the aged, retirement and nursing homes, private and group homes and community agencies.
The course fee of $695 is due at time of registration.