A number of local students are the worthy recipients of this year’s Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship Industry Scholarships. One hundred graduating students in 72 communities received the award.

Each scholarship is worth $1,000 once the recipient registers as an apprentice through the Saskatchewan Trades and Apprenticeship Certification Committee or completes the first level of trade technical training at a recognized institution. 

“The skilled trades are essential to our province’s economic growth,” Immigration and Career Training Minister Jeremy Harrison said.  “The Government of Saskatchewan recognizes how important it is to build a diverse skilled trades workforce, one that is responsive to industry’s needs.  Congratulations to the scholarship winners.  We wish you all the best as you embark on your career paths.”

In the Horizon School Division, the Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship Program is overseen in high school by teachers and the division’s career support personnel. The program allows trades-interested students to explore the option in a series of research and experiential experiences. During the course of the SYA program, students connect with tradespeople and complete industry certifications such as the Young Workers Readiness Program. 

An additional benefit for the recipients sees the apprenticeship registration fee waived along with the tuition for the first level of technical training. The candidate will also be credited with 300 hours toward the completion of their trade papers. 

The Industry Awards are made possible by donations from individuals and companies who support trades training in the province. 

Local winners and the affiliated award donors include:

  • Clay Back - Muenster School - Saskatchewan Construction Association Scholarship
  • Cody Bergermann - HCI - Tom Leverick Scholarship (Alliance Energy Ltd.)
  • Keith Buan - HCI - Saskatchewan Construction Association Scholarship
  • Zachary Zenner - Naicam School - PCL Construction Management Inc. 
  • Tyson Sakundiak - St. Brieux School - Jim Sinneave Scholarship (EECOL Electric)
  • Cole Maine - Winston High School (Watrous) - Saskatchewan Provincial Building and Construction Trades Scholarship