The Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) in Construction is a comprehensive program designed to equip high school students with the specialized skills and knowledge needed for a successful career in the construction industry. This program combines classroom learning, hands-on training, and practical experiences to prepare students for various pathways in the construction sector. We offer Technological Design Engineering 11&12, Construction Engineering 11&12, and Woodworking Techniques (Set Construction). The SHSM program combines these courses with Coop, Math, Science, and Business. Students also participate in many school Construction field trips, trade shows, and Musical Construction Sets and receive sector-recognized training such as Standard First Aid and Working at Heights. 


Students in our SHSM program graduate high school prepared to join the workforce, apprenticeships, college, and university. We have alumni students studying architecture, engineering, and design, as well as many students pursuing apprenticeships in the trades such as carpentry and HVAC. 


In the two years of this program,  we have had two bronze medal finishes in Skills Carpentry and one Gold medal for Skills Ontario! We are extremely proud of our students and their success and are excited to have you participate! 


We invite you to join us on this exciting journey of technological advancement and student exploration. We strive as a department to create a space that is not only for learning about technology but also for experiencing it.



KEY COMPONENTS


Construction Technology: Students will explore the fundamentals of construction, including blueprint reading, building codes, and construction materials. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the entire construction process.


Mathematics Emphasis for Construction: Our courses focus on specialized math, focusing on measurements, calculations, and geometry relevant to construction projects.


Health and Safety in Construction: Comprehensive training on safety protocols and procedures to ensure a secure working environment.


SKILLS TRAINING


Hands-On Construction Skills: Practical training in fundamental construction skills, such as woodworking, drywall, carpentry, and electrical work. Students will have the opportunity to work with industry-standard tools and equipment. 


Construction Project Management: Introduction to project planning, scheduling, and management. Students will learn how to coordinate and execute construction projects efficiently.


CERTIFICATIONS

Obtain industry-recognized certifications such as Working at Heights,  Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), First Aid/CPR, and other relevant certifications specific to the construction sector.


Cooperative Education and Work Placements:

Engage in cooperative education placements with local construction companies, builders, and contractors. This provides real-world experience and allows students to apply their skills in actual construction projects.


Entrepreneurial Skills:

Develop entrepreneurial skills essential for success in the construction industry. This includes project estimation, budgeting, and client communication.


Technology Integration:

Incorporate the use of modern construction technologies, such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), computer-aided design (CAD), and project management software.


Field Trips and Industry Exposure:

Visit construction sites, attend industry trade shows, and engage with professionals to gain a comprehensive understanding of the construction industry.


Outcomes:

Upon completion of the SHSM in Construction, students will be well-prepared for various pathways:


The Specialist High Skills Major in Construction empowers students to embark on successful careers in the dynamic and essential construction field, fostering a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills crucial for the industry's demands.