Brantford student among skilled trades scholarship winners

A Brantford student is among the recipients of Canada’s largest skilled trade scholarship.

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Tyler Weir said he “almost threw his phone across the room” with excitement when he read an email telling him he was among those chosen for the newly created Schulich Builders Scholarships for Skilled Trades.

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Weir’s scholarship is worth $20,000. It means he’s able to attend daytime classes in the one-year Heating, Refrigeration and A/C Techniques program at Mohawk College instead of working full time and studying at night.

“This takes a huge load off my shoulders,” said the 20-year-old graduate of Brantford Collegiate Institute.

Two Norfolk students were also among the scholarship winners. Ben Wernaart of St. Williams, enrolled in the two-year Manufacturing Engineering Technician program at Mohawk, is a recipient of a $40,000 scholarship; and Mackenzie Booker of Windham Centre, who is studying in the Construction Techniques program at Mohawk, is the recipient of a $20,000 award.

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The Schulich Foundation announced earlier this year the game-changing scholarship program dedicated to students pursuing a career in the skilled trades.

The money will cover tuition, tools and living expenses for students enrolled in a skilled trades program at one of 10 participating colleges.

In addition to the scholarships, Schulich Builders provides leadership training and mentorship for graduates.

“These students set themselves apart in the application process and now have some financial security so they can focus on their education and training,” said Ron McKerlie, president and CEO of Mohawk College and president of the Mohawk College Foundation.

Judy Schulich, director of the Schulich Foundation, said they are “proud to promote the skilled trades and support students pursuing this rewarding career path.”

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“Canadians rely on the trades to build and maintain critical infrastructure for prosperous communities. Our challenge today is not having enough of these talented people to meet the demand.”

Through the program, each college will award 10 scholarships a year – five worth $20,000 for one-year certificate programs, and five worth $40,000 for two-year diploma programs.

Out of a pool of 350,000 potential candidates across Canada, more than 1,000 students were nominated, of which 100 received the award.

Weir said he wasn’t sure what he wanted to do after graduating from high school but is now “loving every second” of the hands-on work he is doing in his HVAC labs.

“The teachers all worked in the HVAC industry and know everything top to bottom,” he said.

After he graduates from his current program, Weir plans to return to Mohawk for the Gas and Oil Technician program before seeking an apprenticeship.

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