Thanks to the school's partnership with a summer camp in the region, Lockerby Composite School has earned provincial accolades.
Students were recently named Community Builders by Skills Ontario and Milwaukee Tools.
Students in Construction Technology at Lockerby Composite School have been manufacturing buildings and other structures for Camp Manitou: Bay of Islands for the past 10 years.
So far, students have built a wood shed, a pump house, a generator building, outdoor furniture, as well as docks and ramps. They’ve also designed upgrades to the solar charging system and built prototypes of different LED light fixtures to supplement camp lighting.
A not-for-profit organization, Camp Manitou, located in the Bay of Islands on the North Channel of Lake Huron, offers a low cost week of camping for boys and girls ages eight to 16.
They rely exclusively on volunteers to run programs and facilities, making the partnership with Lockerby Composite School essential to success.
Construction teacher Mike Cole is a strong advocate of the skilled trades and has been a life-long volunteer at Camp Manitou.
“This partnership is a natural fit for us, and we’re proud that our efforts are being recognized at the provincial level,” said Cole.
“Our contribution to Camp Manitou benefits the young people who enjoy the improved facilities during the summer. By participating in this partnerhsip, students gain experience building authentic products. They also learn the value of volunteerism.”
Students were excited to unbox this year’s Milwaukee prize pack, which included mitre saws, jigsaws, drills and circular saws. These tools will be put to good use as volunteers complete the final assembly at Manitou. Since there is no hydro at this remote location, the new cordless tools will make construction a breeze.
Community Builder Colby Lindroos is among the Lockerby students who have volunteered to transport and assemble a new washroom for Camp Manitou this year.
He looks forward to visiting the camp for the very first time, where he will have an opportunity to see the impact of his work. He can’t wait to try out the new tools in Lockerby’s Construction Technology shop in the next school year.
“Lockerby Composite School would like to thank Skills Ontario and Milwaukee Tools for investing in our students as they put their construction skills into practice and build community at Camp Manitou,” said Principal Craig Runciman.
“For teacher Mike Cole and his team of Community Builders, it has been a labour of love.”
By the way, Camp Manitou Bay of Islands is still accepting registrations for its youth and family camps.
Check out its programs online here.
