January 15th, 2026
In partnership with the Business and Education Partnership of Waterloo Region (BEP), the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) invites Grade 7 to 12 students and their parents, families, and caregivers to participate in the Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) and Skilled Trade Learning Opportunities interactive speaker series. This free virtual series gives students a chance to learn about potential career options and help them plan their future career pathways.
Registration for these events is required. A link to the recordings will be available to all registrants after each event. Please see below for more details on each session.
Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) Virtual Information Night for Parents, Families, and Caregivers
Date: Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Time: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
For: Parents, Families, Caregivers, and Students
The Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program helps students in Grade 11-12 specialize, gain qualifications, and plan a career pathway in a specific employment sector while still in high school.
In this webinar, participants will learn from representatives from the WRDSB and Waterloo Catholic District School Board about how SHSM works and how students can get started at their school.
Register for this virtual session.
What Parents Need to Know About Careers in the Skilled Trades
Date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
Time: 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
For: Parents, Families and Caregivers
Skilled trades are a great option for all high school students to consider. There is a growing demand for people to fill satisfying careers in the Skilled Trades.
This webinar will feature:
- A keynote address from Jon Callegher, Executive Director of JobTalks
- Information about the OYAP program
- A question and answer (Q&A) period
The presentation by Dr. Callegher will address:
- What makes a “Good Job” according to Ontario parents, families and caregivers
- Common concerns about children’s well-being
- How “University-bound” traits are also Skilled Trades traits
Dr. Jon Callegher is an award-winning employment researcher.
Register for this virtual session.
5 Great Reasons for Pursuing a Career in the Skilled Trades
Date: Wednesday, March 4, 2026
Time: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
For: Grade 7 to 12 students
Skilled trades are a great option for all high school students to consider. There is a growing demand for people to fill satisfying careers in the Skilled Trades.
This webinar will feature:
- A keynote address from Jon Callegher, Executive Director of JobTalks
- Information about the OYAP program
- A question and answer (Q&A) period
In this presentation, Dr. Callegher will:
- Share five data-driven reasons why the Skilled Trades are an ideal career option
Dr. Jon Callegher is an award-winning employment researcher.
Register for this virtual session.
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