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This month’s SHSM Student Spotlight features Lilly Miller, a dedicated student from Westview Freedom Academy, whose passion for the construction field has been nurtured through the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program. Nominated by her teacher, Mr. Rudak, Lilly’s exceptional dedication and strong work ethic have made her a standout in the program. Her co-op placement at Skyway Scaffold and participation in the Enhanced Construction Program (E.C.P.) have provided her with invaluable experience and skills that will shape her future in the construction industry.
We chatted with Lilly to learn about her experiences in Construction. Read on for her responses.
1. What inspired you to join the SHSM program, and what attracted you to the Construction sector?
Mr. Rudak inspired me to join the SHSM program, and I’ve grown up around people that have been in the construction field.
2. Can you describe your experience during your co-op placement at Skyway Scaffold? What were some of your key responsibilities?
My experience at Skyway Scaffold has been extremely well. The fantastic work environment is very friendly and supportive. My responsibilities have been very similar to the other employees, keeping track and organizing where things go properly.
3. Your teacher mentioned that you were always on time, on task, and respectful. How do you maintain such a strong work ethic and focus throughout your co-op?
A few of the ways I keep my work ethic is because I’m very determined to prove myself and get things done in a clean and timely manner.
4. Being part of the Enhanced Construction Program must have given you unique insights. How has this program helped you in your co-op placement?
The E.C.P. program has been a major help with my placement due to the knowledge and skills I acquired throughout the program.
5. What was the most rewarding part of working at Skyway Scaffold? Was there a particular task or project you found especially interesting?
I really enjoyed the supportive environment and having responsibilities similar to full-time employees. It felt rewarding to be trusted and treated as part of the team.
6. Did you face any challenges during your co-op, and how did you overcome them?
A few of the difficulties I had to overcome during my co-op were getting used to the schedule in the mornings. Another challenge I had to overcome was learning how to lift things properly to prevent myself from getting hurt.
7. How has the SHSM program, and especially your co-op experience, shaped your career goals or plans for post-secondary education?
SHSM has shaped my career goals by giving me knowledge of how to do all the things I can in a safe and successful fashion.
8. What skills or certifications have you gained through the SHSM program that you feel will help you in the construction industry?
Through the SHSM program, I’ve received certifications in Working at Heights, Confined Spaces, CPR and First Aid, Hoisting and Rigging, as well as Mobile Elevated Work Platforms. However, I have not needed to use them in my current co-op placement.
9. What advice would you give to other students who are considering joining the SHSM program, especially those interested in construction?
The advice I’d give to other students interested in applying to SHSM is to apply because the certifications are great and massively open the opportunity for jobs.
10. Who has been your biggest supporter throughout your SHSM journey, and how have they helped you succeed in the program?
My biggest supporter has been my teacher, Mr. Rudak. He was the one who told me to go through SHSM to begin with and suggested the steps to take, which got me into E.C.P. and my co-op with Skyway.
Don’t miss out on more inspiring SHSM journeys! Check out last month’s Student Spotlight to learn about another student’s unique path and accomplishments through the SHSM program.
Stay tuned for next month’s feature as we continue to highlight the incredible stories of students shaping their futures across the GECDSB!
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