Winnipeg students get lessons in the 3 Rs and pipe fitting

Some Winnipeg high schoolstudents are gettinga head start on their careers thanks to a new program.

The Piping Industry Technical College of Manitoba has teamed up with Seven Oaks School Division and the Winnipeg School Divisionto offer technical training to prepare students for jobs after they graduate.

"It really engages the students. It gives them a chance to get intowhether they want to go intothe field or see if this is for them or not," saidco-ordinatorSteveDucharme. "Basically, it's a good stepping stone. If they really like it, they're actually going to belanding on their feet running."

The program teaches students in Grade 11 and 12 the theory of pipe tradesand then they head out on a work practicum. If theypass the accredited program with a mark of 70 per cent or greater, they are qualified to start up as an apprentice.

The unique program has caught the attention of schools in other provinces,Ducharmesaid.

"I've actually had cold calls from some other school divisions in Saskatchewan, Alberta and one outof Ontario, asking about the program. From my research, I can't find anybody else in Canada doing anything like this," he said.

"These other school divisions are just amazed by the level of partnership we've created with the school divisions, Manitoba Education, and thePiping Industry Technical College."