Regina, Saskatchewan — One hundred Saskatchewan high school graduates are getting a little help on their way to careers in the skilled trades, as the province announced on Friday that scholarships are on the way to the would-be apprentices.
The Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission (SATCC) announced that Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship (SYA) Industry Scholarships are being distributed to high school students from 66 communities across Saskatchewan.
The scholarship program was launched in 2009 to support students looking to enter post-secondary skilled trades programs. Recipients redeem scholarships for $1,000 within two years of graduating high school by completing Level 1 apprenticeship technical training or a pre-employment course in a trade designated in Saskatchewan.
Recipients are nominated by educators who oversee SYA programs at high schools, as well as by a committee of SATCC staff members.
“It is nice to be recognized for my dedication to completing a trades program,” said Brayden Smith, recent graduate of Hudson Bay Community School and scholarship recipient.
“The financial assistance will be helpful in reaching my goal as a heavy-duty mechanic.”
The scholarship has received the support of 60 industry sponsors who have contributed more than $750,000 to the fund.
“The SYA Industry Scholarships motivate recipients to go after a career in the skilled trades,” said SATCC board chair Drew Tiefenbach.
“Scholarship recipients realize that careers in the skilled trades are rewarding; skilled tradespeople learn by doing and perform tangible work that contributes to our province’s economic growth. Congratulations to this year’s recipients.”
More than 300 schools and nearly 3,700 students are currently registered in the SYA program.
