Saskatchewan high school students enrolled in online automotive courses had the chance to gain hands-on experience through a one-day learning camp at Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Saskatoon campus. The initiative, a collaboration between the Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre (Sask DLC) and Sask Polytech, aimed to give students practical exposure to the automotive mechanical field while introducing them to career pathways in the trades.
The camp, facilitated by Sask Polytech instructors and industry experts, provided students with an early look at apprenticeship training options and the Automotive Service Technician certificate program. It also counted for six credit hours toward work placement requirements for Sask DLC courses.
Minister Responsible for Sask DLC Everett Hindley said programs like this give students meaningful opportunities to explore career options. “The automotive industry continues to be an important driver in our strong and growing province,” Hindley said. “Through our partnerships, students interested in this field are able to gain hands-on experience that will set them up for success as they transition from high school to a future career.”
The Sask DLC-Sask Polytech partnership connects online learners with practical opportunities, particularly those from rural or remote areas. Student participation in Sask DLC’s Mechanical and Automotive courses has grown to more than 300 registrations this school year, with 168 students taking part in work placements.
Dr. Larry Rosia, president and CEO of Sask Polytech, highlighted the value of these experiences for students considering careers in the trades. “High school students can gain numerous benefits from exploring the trades and participating in the camp,” Rosia said.
Students in Sask DLC’s automotive courses have the option to pair online theory with in-person work placements. The Saskatchewan Automobile Dealers Association (SADA) helps coordinate these placements through its network of dealerships, allowing students to gain practical experience close to home.
“Our association is pleased to introduce students to opportunities in industry,” said Larry Heggs, SADA’s executive director. “Work placements with our member dealers provide students with fundamental practical skills to go alongside their course learning.”
The learning camp also showcased how students can pursue additional Sask DLC courses that integrate work placements, including construction, electrical, welding, and agriculture equipment technician programs.
Registration for Sask DLC’s second-semester courses remains open, with students able to supplement in-person learning at local schools or pursue full-time online study.