Prince George, B.C.- For the past four days, 31 students from School District 57 have been playing in the ultimate sandbox.

They were participating in the 5^th Heavy Metal Rocks program, which gives students hands on experience with the equipment used most often in the construction industry.

 

From mini excavators, to front end loaders, cranes, compactors, rock trucks, graters, and bob cats, the students try their hand at it all, including a few lessons on welding, all at the Inland Cement gravel pit on North Nechako Road.

 

There is a computer program that simulates operating some of the heavy machinery, and Jeff Gorham of the Operating Engineers Training Association says it is amazing how students take to the programs so easily. “They have great hand eye coordination because this simulator is like a video game, but, the program can’t replicate the actual feel of the machine or the pressure one might feel when doing it for real.” Gorham says teaching the basic skills on the computer simulator reduces fuel costs on the real machines, and reduces the possibility of accidents. 

 

 

Safety is the key component of the program, as the highest rate of work related injury is within the 16-24 year old age group. Bruce Clarke, WorkSafeBC’s Regional Prevention Manager says Safety remains a primary message “These budding young workers will learn about the importance of workplace safety right from the very beginning. These students are about to enter the workforce and it’s important they know, understand, and use a safety ‘first philosophy.”

 

With more than $6 million dollars worth of equipment on site, students are trained on the basics, and try each and every piece during the four day program.

 

PGCA President Rosalind Thorn was thrilled to have the Class of 2010 on site “Whether the students’ interest lies in becoming a journeyperson in one of the 30+ trades, or enter into the field of estimating, project management, drafting & design, materials testing or sales, this event will position students well in pursuing a career in construction”.

 

For student Brandon Metcalfe the four days have been worth it “For sure, the program was what I expected and I would definitely consider a career in the construction field because of this experience.”

 

The construction and trades sectors are facing a severe shortage of workers in the not too distant future as the baby boom generation retires there just aren’t enough young people moving into the construction related trades to fill the gap that will be created.

 

In-kind donations and contributions amount to about $525,000. Most of the time and supervision involved is either donated or voluntary.