MOOSE JAW — Phoenix Academy students recently had the opportunity to learn what it takes to lay bricks and work in the masonry industry in Saskatchewan.
The students attended a one-day bricklaying training event in Regina on Feb. 13 that the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers Local No. 1 SK hosted.
John Walker, instructor and training co-ordinator, and Derek Halldorson, union president, provided the experience to help promote the trade — masonry in particular — and give students the opportunity to learn something new and build something with their hands.
“It was an amazing day!” said Christa Lapointe, a teacher at Phoenix Academy.
Halldorson said it was a privilege to host the high school students and give them the chance to learn bricklaying skills first-hand.
“As a union, we believe it’s crucial to introduce young people to skilled trades like bricklaying, as it not only promotes the industry but also helps spark interest in a rewarding career,” he continued. “By providing them with hands-on experience, we hope to inspire the next generation of bricklayers and show them the variety of opportunities available within the trade.”
Halldorson added that these types of initiatives help build the industry’s future and ensure its continued success.
Evan Moffatt, in Grade 12, said the day was fun and an informative learning experience. Moreover, he thought it was a nice change to learn something that took a more hands-on approach.
Said Everett Palmer, in Grade 11, “I thought it was interesting to learn more about the trades. I appreciated learning all the steps and processes involved in creating things. Masonry can be found all over our communities and it was nice to actually see how it is done.”
Carter White, a Grade 12 student, agreed that attending the event was a great way to learn by doing it. He appreciated that hands-on aspect and being exposed to other rewarding employment opportunities, adding that the trades pay well.
The school appreciated the union providing this training opportunity for the students, as the organization gave the youths many hours of hands-on training and lunch afterward, said Lapointe. She thought this event was another way to expose students to the many career opportunities available to them after high school.
“It was great,” agreed principal Jeff Lynnes, as “all the students were engaged throughout the entire day and were eager to try new things and get outside their comfort zone. Everyone walked about at the end of the day happy and proud of what they did.”
Visit www.bac1sk.ca for more information about the union and its activities.
