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 ductwork, 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 Details
Eligibility
Open to all CBE high school students who:
- Are in Grade 11 or 12 during the program
- Are a minimum of 16 years of age
- Are mature, punctual and reliable, as this is an industry setting
- Can 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 before applying, but must be completed within 2 weeks of being accepted into the program (before the program begins)
- HCS 3000, HCS 3010, and CSTS2020
Location & Delivery
Offered in person at SMART Training Centre, Sheet Metal Local 8 (#125 5723 10 Street NE, Calgary AB)
Duration & Time
Summer | Month of July
- Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Semester 2 | February - May
- AM Cohort | Monday - Thursday, 8:30 - 11:30 AM OR
- PM Cohort| Monday - Thursday, 1:00 - 4:00 PM
Timetable Requirements
Semester 2 - Depending on the cohort they are offered (AM or PM), students must have no morning or afternoon classes in their timetable at their home high school to accommodate this program.
Summer - This program is a full-time program, and students must commit to the entirety of the program. Students may not be enrolled in any other summer school courses (work experience may be accepted) and must not be planning on travelling during the month of July.
Workload
Semester 2 - Students can expect a total of 12 hours per week in person.
Summer - Students can expect a total of 37.5 hours per week in person.
There is minimal additional asynchronous work for either session; however, students may require some independent study time to prepare for assessments.
Program Benefits
- Skills, Training and Transition to Work
- Training by a qualified Journeyperson instructor
- Connection to potential work placements
- Completion of industry-recognized safety credentials
Credits
Up to 7 Work Experience Credits
(Credit count may be different in the summer program)
Considerations
- Students must have space in their schedule to accommodate the program delivery, location, and dates.
- School year programs – consider your other required coursework, school timetable, and extracurriculars
- Summer programs – consider your other obligations and travel plans. This course should be considered a full-time job.
- 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.
- Credits are assigned based on attendance (every 25 hours = 1 credit). Missed classes result in fewer credits.
- For school year programs, 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 Counsellor before the deadline to complete your application, including signatures from all parties.
- The school will submit the application to Unique Pathways on your behalf.
Contact
Unique Pathways Team
Explore
Last modified: 2026-07-10 00:09:26.322753 +0000 UTC