Sudbury schools get new tools for carpentry, auto mechanic classes

High school students in the Rainbow District School Board are now using the latest technology in their carpentry and auto mechanic classes.

During the summer the board spent $1 million upgrading all secondary school shops with more than 100 new tools includingnew table saws, press drills and lathes. The upgrades also include emergency stops and guards on over 500 pieces of equipment.

Board superintendent Bruce Bourget said the board sees great value in technological studiesand is willing to invest to ensure students reach their goals.

"We're very excited about what the students will be able to experience this fall," Bourgetsaid.

"It's a fantastic way to start the year," addedRobOngarato, a construction technology teacherat Lively District Secondary School.

He said this top-of-the line workshopallows students to learn the skills on the tools that they will use out in the workplace.

Lively Secondary Secondary School senior student Ian Robbie said he believes using the new tools in the woodworking shop will be a "wonderful experience."

Both he and Grade 10 construction student Emma-Liisa Makinen both believe the upgrades will make theclass safer.

"I'm definitely not nervous around the tools," said Makinen. "I know that what I'm using is safe and it feels good to use them."

Here are some of the carpentry projects created by students at Lively District Secondary School: