Tec Voc expansion underway

Tec Voc High School is entering a new era with the start of a major expansion and renovation at the school for its Aviation and Aerospace Technologies, Machining and Welding Programs.

Construction has officially started on a new two-storey expansion that will be situated on the school’s west side. The 5,800 sq. foot expansion will accommodate a new welding shop and a composites classroom and lab; the project also includes a 5,000 sq. foot renovation of the existing welding and machine shop, along with three classrooms. The existing welding shop will be converted into an Aerospace Manufacturing Centre.

Workers began construction for the expansion on May 16; the project is expected to take approximately 12 months to complete.

“We are all extremely excited about the new space,” said Career Education and Student Services Dept. Head Sylvia Martin. 

Aerospace Teacher Drew Tapley said the expanded space would give programs more room to accommodate cutting edge technology and equipment. 

“We are always showcasing the technology and equipment we use in our programs. A new facility is so important for us because it provides more space for that equipment and technology,” Mr. Tapley said. 

Skilled trades highlighted

Tec Voc’s Aviation and Aerospace Technologies, Machining and Welding students recently had the opportunity to showcase their skills and programs for educators from across Canada. 

On May 19, the school welcomed a tour of nearly two-dozen school superintendents who were in Winnipeg for C21 Canada’s CEO Academy Leadership Summit. 

Visiting dignitaries had the opportunity to get a virtual-reality tour of the pending Tec Voc expansion, as well as see student work in aviation & aerospace, welding, machining and other areas.

“The virtual headset was a great way for delegates to actually go in and see what the future expansion and renovation will look like,” Ms. Martin said.  “We took our delegates on a tour of our different areas and we also demonstrated the collaboration of machining, welding and aerospace, and even bringing in IT to demonstrate how these programs work together to provide the learning environments and the connections to industry to have successful students.”

For more information on Tec Voc’s Aviation and Aerospace Technologies, Machining and Welding Programs, visit https://www.winnipegsd.ca/TechnicalVocational .