Mechanical students earning apprenticeship credit in the Sault

Sault College is sweetening the deal for students in its mechanical programs who are working toward millwright apprenticeship opportunities.

Starting this year, students enrolled in one of the school's mechanical programs will be eligible for exemption from one or more levels of in-class training required for the trades Certificate of Qualification in the millwright trade.

The school said it's an effort to help get more students into the trades while supporting the needs of local employers.

“We know there is a strong demand for skilled trades graduates in our community and across the province,” David Orazietti, president of Sault College, said in a news release.

“This reinforces the quality, hands-on education and training students receive at Sault College while making the path to an apprenticeship and trade Certificate of Qualification more accessible.”

The applicable programs include Mechanical Engineering Technician – Manufacturing and Mechanical Techniques (Millwright), through which students can earn classroom credit toward becoming an industrial mechanic (millwright) or construction millwright trade.

Algoma Steel, described as a long-standing community partner to the school, endorsed the move.

 “At Algoma Steel, we believe in the power of education to forge the future of industry. We applaud Sault College for adapting its programs to meet the real-world demand for skilled trades professionals,” Michael Garcia, Algoma Steel's CEO, said in the release.

“Sault College’s decision to integrate apprenticeship in-class curriculum is a win-win, creating a direct path for students into the workforce and providing industries like ours with the skilled professionals we need.”

The applicable programs are offered at the school's Sault Ste. Marie campus.