In recognition of their outstanding mentorship to local students enrolled in the skilled trades, the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) is pleased to announce the 2018 Barbara Wright Award winners.
This annual honour is named after former OYAP Coordinator/Facilitator Barbara Wright, a longtime advocate and passionate supporter of skilled trades related programs for students in Bruce and Grey Counties. Two recipients are determined by a selection panel of education and community partners, who review nominations received from students, staff, and other stakeholders in the categories of Mentor in Education and Mentor from the Community. Nominations reflect the extent to which the mentors have provided sponsorship, encouragement, and support for apprenticeship and the development of local students in the skilled trades.
The 2018 Mentor in Education has been awarded to Bud Halpin, Construction Technology Teacher at Saugeen District Secondary School (SDSS) in Port Elgin. For several years, Bud has provided students with opportunities to participate in an off-site construction program that has allowed them to immerse themselves in the trades in collaboration with various community partners. Student build projects have included a workshop at Southampton Cemetery, pavilions at Fairy Lake and Coulter Park, an outside classroom at Port Elgin-Saugeen Central School, a school house at Grey Roots Museum and Archives, accessible boardwalks for the beach, and a Habitat for Humanity project, among others. Bud has also developed a Specialist High Skills Major program for SDSS in Construction. By instilling a growth mindset in his students, they are empowered to believe in themselves and develop the confidence to persevere and do their best. His class motto is “Safety, Education and Community”.
The 2018 Mentor from the Community has been awarded to Richard LeBlanc of Dunn’s Electric in Owen Sound. Over the past 15 years, Richard and his business have been a huge supporter of apprenticeships and cooperative education in the Owen Sound area, providing coop experiences for approximately 25 students and hiring at least five of them. One of the students has even gone on to open their own electrical contracting business, which in turn, also accepts coop students. Richard is always supportive of students and treats them with respect. He has proven himself as a successful role model for youth who are interested in the skilled trades, and has actively supported OYAP.
Congratulations are extended to both of this year’s Barbara Wright Award recipients for their continued support of the skilled trades and commitment to the success of local students.
source: media release, BWDSB
