INNISFAIL - Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools (RDCRS) students are being offered an opportunity to learn construction industry skills under a new program, says superintendent Kathleen Finnigan.
In monthly report presented during the Oct. 29 board meeting, Finnigan outlined the new education opportunity, being conducted in conjunction with Blackfalds-based Eagle Builders.
“RDCRS is excited to launch our first ‘Building Skills Together’ camp,” she said. “This is an opportunity for high school student to attend a five-day immersive experience by Eagle Builders, a leader in the prefabricated concrete industry, and is designed for a select group of students interested in construction and engineering.
“This program focuses on introducing students to foundational skills used in forming and constructing concrete components in building construction.”
Objectives of the program include “fostering interest in skilled trades and technical careers” and “providing mentorship and networking opportunities with industry professionals,” she said.
“This unique opportunity allows students to stop into the work of construction, sparking interest in future careers while giving them a taste of real-world work in a supportive and educational environment.”
The 10,400-student RDCRS division includes schools in Innisfail and Olds.
In her report, Finnigan also updated trustees on the recent RDRCS collaborative effort with Chinook’s Edge School Division to offer students a new aviation ground school program in conjunction with Sky Wings Aviation.
“The curriculum covers various subjects including theory of flight, air law, meteorology, engines and airframes, weight and balance, performance charts, communications, navigation and pilot decision making,” she said.
“This collaboration with Sky Wings Aviation is an invaluable investment in student learning, providing a unique opportunity for growth and career development.”
A dozen students took part in the Flying High program in recent months, she said.
Meanwhile, RDCRS trustees recent met with Town of Innisfail elected officials and staff to discuss future plans, she said.
“A community overview was provided by the mayor along with discussions on the potential growth of Innisfail due to anticipated commercial growth,” she said. “Information was provided on St. Marguerite’s student population forecast and the joint-use agreement was discussed.”
Trustees accepted Finnigan’s report as information.
