R.D. Parker Collegiate hosted their annual young women's conference on April 16 to promote non-traditional career paths for young women.
Supported by Skills Canada, Vale, Manitoba Hydro, University College of the North, City of Thompson, Northern Manitoba Sector Council and Apprenticeship Manitoba, the conference drew 120 Grade 8 girls from all six elementary schools in Thompson, as well as schools from Wabowden and Nelson House.
Linda Markus chaired the co-ordinating committee once again this year, and says that supporting surrounding communities is vital to the goals of the conference.
"Those girls will have access to high school programs in their communities but this gave them a chance to meet with the mentors and participate in the activities have some potential career exposure here in the City of Thompson," said Markus.
This year's conference welcomed 14 mentors from a variety of careers in Thompson, including guest speakers Joanne Marchand who is a mechanic at Vale, and Eileen Johnson from Apprenticeship Manitoba.
Participants were given the opportunity to interview and learn from each of the 14 mentors that were in attendance.
The insight provided by the mentors wasn't the only learning experience of the day, as participants were afforded the opportunity to tour the array of programs offered at R.D. Parker Collegiate including, aviation, small motor repair, computer assisted drafting, carpentry, power mechanics, mineral science technology, drafting, metals, woodworking, and electronics.
"We want to promote non-traditional career paths for these young females," said Markus, "so when they're coming to high school they have the frame of mind that these programs are not off limits to them."
While this conference was aimed specifically at young women in and around Thompson, Markus noted that it's important for all young people, male and female, to consider trades and resource based jobs.
"It's critically important for all of our young people to take a look around at all the career opportunities that exist," said Markus, "this conference looks at women in particular, but we want all of our youth in the north to see the potential for careers in some very rewarding fields."
