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On May 29, 2025, the Greater Essex County District School Board (GECDSB) officially launched its latest addition to the Enhanced Construction Program (ECP) — the Electrical School in partnership with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 773. The event, held at the United Brotherhood of Carpenters & Joiners Of America Local 494 (UBCJA) training facility in Oldcastle, marked a significant expansion of the Board’s highly successful hands-on skilled trades programming.
In attendance were Director of Education Vicki Houston, GECDSB staff, students, union representatives, and members of the media, all celebrating the new pilot initiative that connects high school education with real-world trade experience. The partnership builds on the existing collaboration with the UBCJA Local 494.
Beginning in September 2025, the new program will offer Grade 11 students an immersive educational experience based out of the IBEW Local 773 Training Centre in Windsor. The first semester will feature a blend of academic and technical instruction, followed by a full-semester cooperative education placement that allows students to earn four high school credits while gaining on-the-job experience in the electrical field.
“Programs like this are not only about preparing students for employment—they're about empowering confident, capable learners. They’re about showing students that their unique paths are valid, valuable, and full of promise,” said Director Houston. “Thank you to all the educators, tradespeople, and partners who have helped make today a reality. I am honoured to be part of this moment, and I can’t wait to see how this program grows and what our students will achieve.”
Students in the program will be supported by GECDSB Math and English teachers and will have access to flexible learning options, including e-learning, to help them fulfill graduation requirements. The initiative reflects the Board’s commitment to student success and the growing need for skilled trades professionals in the community.
Logan Kane, UBCJA Area Training Manager for Southwestern Ontario, added, “This program has allowed students to have real-world opportunities in the classroom and put real futures in their hands. What we've been able to build is something that extends beyond the curriculum and results in meaningful careers. What sets this program apart from a typical high school experience is simple – they’re not talking about construction; they are learning construction…these students are gaining real-world experience in real-world environments.”
Thank you to Justin St. Pierre, Trent Durocher, Jason Lepain and all GECDSB staff and students who have helped to make this program possible.
Please contact your Secondary School guidance department to find out how to register today! If you have specific questions about the program or are in employer looking to engage with our SHSM students please reach out to [email protected].
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