Southland International hosted the Readymade 4-H Multi Club last week for a student education night focused on learning about the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP). The program empowers students with hands-on work experience within trades of their choosing. George Kirkham, owner of Southland International Trucks, gave students and parents a full business tour highlighting key trades-related areas such as the parts department and heavy-duty shop. The tour gave students perspective on the RAP program, and how various trades operated in the context of a truck dealership. Following the tour, attendees were taken to see the Kirkham International Motor Truck Collection. There, everyone had the chance to get up close and personal with International Truck history.
How does RAP work?
RAP is designed to provide students with part-time trades work experience during the entirety of the school year. Actively participating in the duties related to specific trades allows students to identify whether the trade is the right path for them. Students are paid for their work like any other job, collect credits toward high school graduation, and earn hours that are applicable to the on-the-job portion of post-high school apprenticeships. This means students get a head start on the trade from a knowledge standpoint, and reduce the time it will take to complete their apprenticeship after high school. More information on the RAP program and how to enroll can be found at Alberta trade secrets.
