Indigenous Skilled Trades Training Program
Embracing Innovation: Building Futures, Communities and Cultural Pride
The Indigenous Skilled Trades Training Program at 国产福利十三页在线观看 Board is redefining student success through a community-driven, culturally grounded approach to experiential learning. Designed as a scalable model that responds directly to systemic barriers facing Indigenous youth—including limited access to trades training and the ongoing housing crisis in remote First Nations communities—this innovative program blends hands-on skills development, land-based learning, and meaningful community partnership. Developed in collaboration with the Matawa Tribal Council, two public school boards, and Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, the program is now offered in three high schools across Northwestern Ontario, empowering youth to build confidence, capability, and connection.
Created for Indigenous students aged 16–21, the program provides practical, industry-aligned training while strengthening cultural identity, resilience, and community pride. Students gain real-world experience by contributing directly to housing solutions—building homes that support Northern First Nations communities—an approach that transforms learning into purpose. Supported by Indigenous Services Canada, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, the Lakehead Social Planning Council, Thunder Bay Indigenous Friendship Centre, and Smart Modular Canada, along with community collaboration from Ginoogaming First Nation, Red Rock Indian Band, and Biinjitiwaabik Zaaging Anishinaabek, this initiative demonstrates how public education—when guided by Indigenous knowledge and community priorities—can drive lasting social change and strengthen the future of the North.
The 国产福利十三页在线观看 Board (SGDSB) proudly celebrates the growing success of its Indigenous Skilled Trades Training Program is a transformative initiative that blends hands-on trades training, cultural empowerment, and community partnership to support Indigenous youth across Northern Ontario.
Designed to inspire confidence, build employable skills, and strengthen connections to community, this innovative program provides students with meaningful pathways into high-demand skilled trades while honouring culture, identity, and land-based learning.
Hands-On Skilled Trades Training for Indigenous Youth
Now offered at Nipigon-Red Rock District High School and Geraldton Composite High School, the program equips students with practical experience in a variety of trades, including:
- Carpentry
- Electrical work
- Plumbing
- Heavy machinery operation
Students receive industry-recognized certifications that increase their employability, including:
- Working at Heights
- WHMIS
- First Aid
- Chainsaw Safety
- Skid Steer Operation
This combination of technical training and experiential learning helps students gain real-world skills, career readiness, and confidence as they explore opportunities in the skilled trades.
A Unique Blend of Trades Training, Land-Based Learning & Cultural Empowerment
What sets SGDSB's Indigenous Skilled Trades Training Program apart is its powerful integration of:
- Land-based learning, grounded in cultural teachings
- Hands-on construction and equipment training
- Collaborative partnerships with Indigenous communities and industry experts
- Experiential projects that contribute directly to community wellbeing
Through partnerships with Matawa First Nations, Smart Modular Canada, Indigenous Services Canada, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), and the Lakehead Social Planning Council, students are not only building their skills—they are helping build homes for Northern First Nations communities.
One of the program's current capstone projects includes a student-built home at Nipigon-Red Rock District High School that will be donated to Ginoogaming First Nation when complete. This work fosters purpose, pride, and a deep connection to community service.
Student Success, Leadership, and Cultural Pride
Program lead and Vice-Principal Lisa MacLeod shares,
“This initiative not only equips students with hands-on skills for careers in trades but also fosters resilience, collaboration, and cultural pride. Our students are learning far more than technical skills—they're discovering confidence, leadership, and a deep sense of purpose.”
The program's impact goes well beyond certifications and construction, it builds identity, belonging, and future career pathways for Indigenous students across the region.
Expanding Opportunities Across Northern Ontario
Originally launched through Lakehead Public Schools in Thunder Bay, the Indigenous Skilled Trades Training Program has now expanded into SGDSB and continues to grow. The Board is strengthening partnerships with local First Nations, skilled trades professionals, and community mentors to ensure students have access to:
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Real-world work experience
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Culturally relevant learning environments
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Sustainable pathways to apprenticeships and employment
This innovative model is shaping the next generation of Northern Ontario's skilled workforce while supporting community housing needs.
Aligned With SGDSB's Vision for Innovation and Joy in Learning
The program reflects SGDSB's Multi-Year Strategic Plan, particularly its commitment to:
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Embracing Innovation
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Joy in Learning and Teaching
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Meaningful, experiential learning opportunities
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Preparing students for success today and in the future
By honouring culture, strengthening community ties, and encouraging hands-on learning, the Indigenous Skilled Trades Training Program exemplifies SGDSB's belief in education that builds stronger students, stronger communities, and a stronger North.
Learn More
Contact us to explore how SGDSB is empowering Indigenous youth through skilled trades education, community partnerships, and innovative learning opportunities.
Lisa MacLeod
Vice Principal, Indigenous Skilled Trades Training Program
Nipigon Red Rock District High School
46 Salls Street Red Rock , ON P0T 2P0
Phone: (807) 886-2201 Ext: 224
Email: lmacleod@sgdsb.on.ca