About the Centre
News/Media

For Immediate Release

May 15, 2009

Winner of the 2009 Ethel Gardiner Manufacturing Scholarship & Award announced

Burlington, ON: More than 135 people gathered at The Centre for Skills Development & Training last night for the third annual Skilled Trades Graduation. The class of 2008, along with former and current students, guests and Centre staff, were on hand to applaud the winner of the 2009 Ethel Gardiner Manufacturing Scholarship & Award and the three students recognized with Exceptional Overall Performance Awards.

Gaetan C. Bouffard won the 2009 Ethel Gardiner Manufacturing Scholarship & Award. Currently a student in The Centre’s manufacturing program, Gaetan demonstrated exemplary effort and skills while at T.A. Blakelock High School, exhibits leadership qualities, and has the academic and technical skills needed to become a successful apprentice.

Robert Owen, Andrew Chiro and Trevor Falla were each recognized with a performance award.

“The skilled trades as career options are gaining in importance, and today’s graduates are embarking on careers that are vital to our community’s economic health,” said Kathy Mills, Chief Administrative Officer for The Centre. “We’re proud of the work we do here at The Centre and across Halton Region, and we are enormously proud of the students graduating today.”

The class of 2008 comprised more than 110 students from the construction, electrical, manufacturing and Women in Skilled Trades programs.

“My challenge to today’s graduates is this—don’t forget your roots,” said Wayne Joudrie, Director of Education for the Halton District School Board and President of The Centre’s board of directors. “Pass the torch along, take the opportunity to teach someone else, and give your best back to the community.”

“Thank you to the Centre for giving me the opportunity to participate in the Get in Gear program,” said Gaetan Bouffard, referring to The Centre’s career focus program for youth. “Without it I would probably never have found my calling and inspiration to continue my learning in the Millwright/Machinist program.” Gaetan also thanked Ethel’s family, Paul and Cindy Gardiner, for establishing the scholarship award.

Ethel Gardiner—former teacher, school trustee, Chair of the Halton District School Board and Chair of the Board of Directors of The Centre for Skills Development & Training—was passionate about education and dedicated to putting students first. She was a strong supporter of life-long learning and was interested in providing opportunities for adult learners through skilled trades training.

“Everyday when I go to work, I gain new knowledge and I am faced with new and exciting challenges,” said Robert Owen, who is employed by Claymore Design and Construction Inc. of Mount Hope as an assistant carpenter. Robert spoke to the graduates about his experiences. “As in all trades, there is an endless amount of troubleshooting and problem solving involved which definitely keeps things interesting.”

“I am thankful for all the training I received from the very skilled & dedicated staff,” continued Robert. “It has truly given me and hopefully all the other students here today a solid foundation from which to build.”

The Centre for Skills Development & Training is a leading provider of quality career and workforce development programs, products and services, specializing in pre-apprenticeship trades and technology, employment services, corporate development services, language skills and academic upgrading. The Centre offers its programs at locations in Burlington, Georgetown, Malton, Milton, Mississauga and Oakville. Visit www.thecentre.on.ca to learn more.

-30-

Photos available upon request.

Contact: Nancy Moore, Manager,Employment Services & Skilled Trades
The Centre for Skills Development & Training
905-333-3499, ext. 110 | mooren@thecentre.on.ca

Alternate Contact: Maria McDonald, Manager, Communications
The Centre for Skills Development & Training
905-333-3499 ext. 135 | mcdonaldm@thecentre.on.ca