Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) programs offer first-hand experience and unique training in all four career pathway destinations: Apprenticeship, College, University and the Workplace. Each SHSM program offers students a bundle of 8 to 10 credits including a 2 credit co-op. These courses are regular Ontario secondary school courses that allow students to work towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma, but have been bundled as the most relevant courses to prepare students for a future in chosen SHSM field.
Learn more about Specialist High Skills Major Programs through
Halton Pathways
Listen to HDSB Grads share their experiences with their SHSM Programs
The Energy SHSM program gives students the chance to focus on the dynamic and growing energy sector while still in high school. Through certifications, hands-on learning, and real-world experience, students are prepared for future pathways in apprenticeship, college, university, or the workplace.
This sector includes a wide range of opportunities in energy generation, distribution, efficiency, and innovation—from renewable sources like wind and solar to traditional fossil fuels and power systems.
This SHSM offers a strong foundation for students who are curious about how energy powers our world—and how they can be part of shaping its future.
GWSS also runs a vibrant robotics program, GWSS Robotics 5409! Our award-winning robotics team has proudly represented our school on the world stage in Texas twice. Their success reflects the strength of our programs in technology and design.
Key areas of focus:
Renewable energy (e.g., wind, solar, biomass)
Power generation and distribution
Fossil fuel industries
Energy efficiency and conservation
This program helps students build a strong foundation for post-secondary success in a rapidly evolving field.
The Environment SHSM program allows high school students to focus on careers that support environmental protection, sustainability, and innovation. While earning their diploma, students gain real-world experience, certifications, and training that prepare them for apprenticeship, college, university, or workplace pathways.
As the need for a clean and healthy environment grows, so do career opportunities in areas like conservation, environmental research, outdoor recreation, and green innovation. Governments and organizations are increasingly investing in programs to protect natural resources like our air, water, and land.
This program helps students develop the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact in the environmental field.
The ICT SHSM program gives high school students a chance to explore and prepare for careers in the fast-growing tech and communications fields. While earning their diploma, students gain valuable experience, certifications, and skills that support pathways to apprenticeship, college, university, or the workplace.
ICT plays a key role in many industries—from boosting efficiency and driving innovation to supporting online services, marketing, and digital creativity.
Brochure: Coming Soon
Areas of focus include:
Hardware and IT systems
Software and coding
Digital media, design, and communications
Marketing and online business tools
This program equips students with in-demand skills and experiences that can lead to exciting opportunities in the ever-evolving world of technology and digital communication.
Inidcate your interest in a specific SHSM program by visiting myBlueprint or contact the SHSM Leads