Shop Talk Newsletter - October 2026

The school year is settling in, and we're off to a fantastic start! Thank you to everyone who joined our first virtual event, an information session about what the Skilled Trades and Technology Collegiate is all about. We were thrilled with the great turnout and all the thoughtful questions. If you missed it, don't worry: you can catch the recording at the bottom of this newsletter.

Our Trades CALM and Career Exploration courses are now underway, and it has been awesome to see students diving in, asking big questions, and discovering new career possibilities. We also have some exciting events coming up this fall, so keep reading for all the details. We can't wait to see you there!

• Try interactive skill stations
• Meet health care professionals and hear how they got where they are
• Learn about education pathways for over 20 careers
• Connect with CAREERS The Next Generation and post-secondary institutions

Careers you can explore:

Nursing • Physicians • Pharmacy • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Respiratory Therapy • Recreation Therapy • Speech Language • Audiology • Diagnostic Imaging • Dentistry • Optometry • Social Work • Facilities Maintenance • and many more!

Whether you already know you want to work in health care or you're just curious what's out there, there's something here for you. No experience needed — just bring your questions.

✅ Spots are limited, so register now, to confirm your spot.

Use this link to register: https://redcap.albertahealthservices.ca/surveys/?s=JLT888WXA874C8A9

More info: https://redcap.link/highschoolexpo

Whether you're applying for a part-time job, meeting an employer at a career fair, or talking to someone in a trade you're curious about, a confident introduction makes a strong first impression.

Try building your own using this simple formula:

1. Who you are:

"Hi, my name is ___, and I'm a Grade ___ student at ___ School."

2. What you're interested in:

"I'm interested in ___ because ___."

3. A skill or experience:

"I've been ___ (a class, hobby, volunteer role, or job), which helped me learn ___."

4. What you're looking for:

"I'm hoping to learn more about ___ / find a part-time job in ___."

Here's an example:
"Hi, my name is Jordan, and I'm a Grade 11 student at Argyll School. I'm interested in carpentry because I love building things with my hands. I've been helping my uncle with home renovation projects, which taught me how to use tools safely and follow plans. I'm hoping to learn more about how to start an apprenticeship."

Try this: Write out your introduction, then practice saying it out loud a few times, in the mirror, to a family member, or even recorded on your phone. Aim for about 30 seconds. The more you practice, the more natural it will feel!

Learn about the programming, courses, and opportunities available through the collegiate, and how it can help students explore careers and plan for life after high school.

LINK TO VIDEO

Daria Puckrin - daria.puckrin@epsb.ca

Chrissie Dowdell - chrissie.dowdell@epsb.ca