The gravel pit on Bond Lake Road was busy Saturday, April 27, as Williams Lake students participated in the final day of Heavy Metal Rocks.
For three days, 24 students were learning about work safety and operating equipment from local trades people.
“From the side of the school district I got to say this would only absolutely be possible with so many people buying in,” said Dave Corbett, district principal for career education with School District 27 before he presented the students with certificates and awards. “It truly is a community raising a child.”
He asked the students to show appreciation for all the trainers, to which the students clapped, hooted and hollered.
Masen Noble, Grade 11, said everybody was great.
“They are all friendly, helpful, patient and here to help you and put on a good event,” Masen said. “I learned a lot about all the machines.”
When asked if he had a favourite, he said at least half of the machines were his favourite.
Kailey Boyles, Grade 11, also loved the experience, although she has driven a tractor at home.
“My favourites were the processor and the front loader,” she said, adding she is thinking about going into the trades.
As it was the last day, each student was presented with a certificate.
Other students taking the course were Lena Sheppard, Daeton Russell, Julia Zirnhelt, Ali Calabrese, Kody Camille, Ashley Rowat, Paige Romaniuk, Allison McKinnon, Sophia Kolodychuk, Darby Ferguson, Preston Sigsworth, Bella Shoults, Micah Dyck, Launa Bartley, Josef Aschwanden, Sam Holmes, Katie Croswell, Shalene White, Jenna Hunt, Jessabelle Trelenberg, Corrinn Ewasiuk and Lacey Schaafama.
Corbett also presented the awards.
Micah received most improved operator.
Lena got most enthusiastic operator.
The four safety awards went to Bella (Mount Polley Mine) , Ali (West Fraser), Launa (Tolko, top operator runner-up) and Sam Holmes (Gibraltar Mine, top operator).
Additionally, the trainers were rated by the students and there was a tie, with both trainers chosen from the rock truck drivers. They were Craig Strayer and Joe D’Appollona.
Corbett will be retiring and was recognized Friday for all his efforts.
“Dave brought 288 students, 288 trainers and 288 pieces of equipment here by organizing Heavy Metal Rocks all these years,” said Allison Bos, helping teacher with the career education program. “That has totalled to over $1 million.”
Kevin Parent, district vice-principal for the career program who will take over when Corbett retires, said next week Heavy Metal Rocks will be held in 100 Mile House for students there.
It is hosted at the Exeter Pit and features local trainers and companies from that area.
Once again the Williams Lake Lyons Club was on hand preparing food for everyone throughout the three days.
Saturday’s lunch included a barbecue, salad, fresh fruit, baking and beverages.
“We buy the food and they do the work,” said Bos. “It’s wonderful.”
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