March 2, 2011                                                                                      

Skilled Trades Hall of Fame Welcomes DSBN Educator 

For many years, Kevin Graham has been a champion for the skilled trades and technological education programs at the DSBN. On Friday, March 4, Kevin will receive some well deserved recognition when he is inducted into the Klaus Woerner Skilled Trades Hall of Fame in Waterloo, Ontario.

The Hall of Fame Awards recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of skilled trades and technologies.  It is typically an outstanding journeyperson, a leader in technical education at the college or apprenticeship level or an individual or corporation who has led in providing apprenticeship opportunities. 

“It is very rare that a Secondary school teacher is awarded this honour, which speaks volumes as to what Kevin has accomplished for the Skilled Trades throughout his teaching career at the District School Board of Niagara,” says Carol Germyn, Superintendent of School Support Services.

As the DSBN’s Technology and Experiential Learning Consultant, Kevin has been instrumental in the development and implementation of the Board’s highly successful Specialist High Skills Majors programs, which offer high school students the opportunity to focus their education in a specific economic sector. Kevin and his team have also worked diligently to foster partnerships with local businesses and community agencies. These partnerships work to provide enhanced learning opportunities for students. In 2009, under Kevin’s leadership, the DSBN began an international build program, allowing students to develop their construction skills while building a home in partnership with Habitat for Humanity in another country 

Click here for more information about technology programs available at the DSBN. 

The late Klaus Woerner, founder and CEO of ATS Automation Tooling Systems, was a gifted engineer, entrepreneur and business leader who made a significant and lasting contribution to the global automation industry.  Thousands of young engineers and tradespeople around the world have benefited from his commitment to apprenticeship training.