Trades Sampler is an academy-style program where students get the opportunity to sample 5 different trades while attending Selkirk College’s trades campus. Electrical, Welding, Millwright/Machinist, Carpentry, Metal Fabrication and Heavy Duty Mechanics are all trades that students may sample.
Students also obtain workplace safety certificates such as WHMIS training, Occupational First Aid 1, and a Forklift operator class 5 certificate in addition to the young worker safety training that is embedded throughout the course.
In addition to this, students finish the course with on-the-job training for 4 weeks in a trade of their interest. This program gives students who are interested in entering a skilled trade experience with which they can make an informed decision about their potential career path.
The Selkirk College Trades Sampler rotates between Salmo Secondary School and Mount Sentinel Secondary School. Students must be registered with either school prior to the academic year.
2 weeks in-class safety orientation + course preparation at SD8 Secondary School
10 weeks of trades sampling (2 weeks for each trade)
5 weeks of work placement (can be paid or unpaid)
Dates of Program: February to June (all of second semester). Mt. Sentinel rotation for February 2027.
Teacher: Lars Nilsson + Selkirk College Instructors
Required Materials: CSA certified Work Boots and Safety Glasses
Certifications offered in the course: Level 1 Occupational First Aid, WHMIS & Fall Protection Training or Forklift training
Trades Offered: Carpentry, Welding, Machinist/Millwright, Metal Fabrication, Electrical, & Heavy Duty Mechanics
Location: SD8 Secondary School + Selkirk College (Nelson Silverking Campus)
Class Size: 16
Credits Earned: Up to 22 credits
Registration Requirements: Complete the Expression of Interest (EOI) application available from Mt. Sentinel and submit it to the school counsellor. Must be a registered student at the school.
Please note that due to increased interest and seat capacity, the Trades Sampler program is moving to a selection committee process as of 26-27. Expressions of interest are supplemented by:
Deadline for Expressions of Interest portion of the application is April 20th. Selection committee recommendations will be completed May 15th. Students and families will receive letters indicating decisions.