Unique Pathways & Off-campus Education
Exploratory – Sheet Metal Trades
Overview
Exploring a program in the sheet metal trades and HVAC offers high school students a unique opportunity to dive into a dynamic and essential industry that plays a vital role in modern construction and energy efficiency. In partnership with The Educational Partnership Foundation (TEPF) and the SMART Sheet Metal Training Centre (Local 8 Sheet Metal Workers), students can participate in a free one-semester program to explore the Sheet Metal Trades.
As our world increasingly prioritizes sustainable practices and innovative technology, skills in sheet metal fabrication and HVAC systems are in high demand. Participating in this hands-on program not only equips students with practical, in-demand skills but also opens doors to a variety of rewarding career paths. By learning to design, install, and maintain critical systems that impact our daily lives, students can set themselves on a path toward a successful and fulfilling future in the skilled trades.
This program will have a particular focus on HVAC and duct work, but will touch on other aspects as well. Students will learn from industry professionals and trainers to prepare for a future career in this versatile trade. Training takes place in an industry setting by Journeyperson instructors.
Students will learn:
- Health & Safety, Regulations & Industry Policy
- Tools & Materials in Sheet Metal Working
- Blueprint Reading and Interpretation
- Basic measurement, layout and calculation skills for various types of projects
- Sheet Metal Forming and Bending
- Sheet Metal Cutting & Welding
- Sheet Metal Joining and Fastening
- Introduction to HVAC Systems
- Careers in the Sheet Metal Trades
Students will earn industry recognized credentials in:
- Fall protection
- Aerial Work Platform (Elevated Platform)
- First Aid
Program Benefits
- Skills, Training and Transition to Work
- Training by qualified Journeyperson instructor
- Connection to potential work placements
- Completion of industry recognized safety credentials
Up to 7 Work Experience Credits
Student Eligibility
Open to all CBE high school students, who:
- Are in Grade 11 or 12 during the program
- Are minimum 16 years of age
- Are mature, punctual and reliable, as this is an industry setting
- Are able to commit to the duration of the program and attend one of two cohort times
- Pre-requisite Courses:
- HCS 3000, HCS 3010, and CSTS2020
- All courses are available through the home high school Off-campus Coordinator or Guidance Counsellor
- Ideally, pre-requisite courses are completed prior to applying, but must be completed within 2 weeks of being accepted into the program (before the program begins)
Program Dates
- Semester 2 | February to May
- AM Cohort| Monday–Thursday, 8:30–11:30 AM OR
- PM Cohort| Monday–Thursday, 1:00–4:00 PM
Program Delivery and Location
- In-person at SMART Training Centre (Sheet Metal Local 8), #125 5723 10 Street NE, Calgary AB
- All attempts will be made to place students in their preferred cohort (AM or PM), but is not guaranteed.
Considerations
- Students must have space in their full year timetable to accommodate the program delivery, location, and dates indicated below.
- Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from the program location. Support may be available – reach out to your Off-campus Coordinator or guidance counsellor or email uniquepathways@cbe.ab.ca if you require support.
- Students are expected to attend every day and meet all safety and behavioural expectations of the program partner site. Failure to do so may result in removal from the program.
- Students must be registered as a full-time student, taking at least one course at their home high school during the program (work experience excluded).
- Students will be expected to communicate with both their CBE supervising teacher and course instructor regularly.
How to Apply
- Read through the course(s) and/or program(s) of interest.
- Review program choice with your school Off-campus Coordinator and/or Guidance Counsellor for program readiness and timetabling concerns.
- You are highly encouraged to attend the
Unique Pathways Information Night to ask questions of our program partners and determine if the program is a good fit for you. Connect with your Off-campus Coordinator or Guidance counsellor if you are unable to attend.
- Download and fill in the Dual Credit Application Form Package when available.
- Refer to the application checklist and ensure all items are complete.
- Book an appointment with your Off-campus Coordinator and/or Guidance Counselor before the deadline to complete your application, including signatures from all parties.
- The school will submit the application to Unique Pathways on your behalf.
Program Partner
Application Deadline
Applications for Summer and Fall 2025 are not yet available. Please check back in March 2025!
