iN PHOTOS: Hands-on experience operating forestry, construction machines in Kamloops
A gravel pit in Kamloops was packed with 32 high school students, pieces of heavy-duty equipment and experts in the construction and forestry industries a few days ago.
The Heavy Metal Rocks program gives grade 11 and 12 students a chance to explore careers as heavy-duty equipment operators through one-to-one guidance with certified operators.
“It was crazy the number of volunteers and people who donated their time and machines, organizers have been working on the program for months,” said parent Tammy Osborne. “My daughter said she was comfortable strapped in, operating the machines.”
Several local companies, sponsors and volunteers came together to make the hands-on learning experience possible. Equipment coordinator at the Dawson Group Brad Gerow was one of several mentors on site for the three-day program.
“The school district puts out applications in the fall for students who want to learn about construction and forestry,” he said. “Trades coordinators went to schools to promote the program, we were looking for the right students. All the seats were filled and the students did a great job."
The students had a chance to operate a skid steer, a wood processor, a butt 'n top, a rock truck, a skid steer, an excavator, a skidder and a log splitter. They also received certifications in first aide, site safety, WHMIS, forklift operatio, and aerial platform lift operation during the three-day program.
“Doing it at this age is inspiring some of the kids who are wondering what they’re going to do for a career,” Osborne said. “The amount of stuff that all those volunteers did to support these young kids that were taking this in incredible. There were quite a few girls who took the course too, it was awesome. Everyone was super friendly and dedicated.”
The Heavy Metal Rocks program has been running for 16 years.
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