Niagara Catholic District School Board

Program Details

 The Manufacturing Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program provides high school students with essential certifications and hands-on experience, preparing them for further education and exciting careers in   fields such as robotics, machining, and quality control within the manufacturing industry. This program includes:

 A.  A Bundle of Credits: Students must complete nine senior credits, including:

  ·    Four major credits in Manufacturing, including courses like manufacturing and transportation.  

  ·     One or More English credits.

  ·     One Mathematics Credit.

  ·     One additional credit in Science.

*Sample Course Selections for a Apprenticeship Bound Student Studying Manufacturing  

*Contact Student Services at your school for course availability and planning support

Two Cooperative Education Credits related to Manufacturing. Apprenticeship, College, or Workplace bound students can take FOUR or more credits in co-op while fulfilling graduation requirements.

Certifications and Training: Students must complete sector-recognized certifications and training, such as:

•          Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Level C
•          Standard First Aid
•          Certifications like WHMIS, welding, and CNC Machining

Experiential Learning: Opportunities for hands-on learning through cooperative education placements, job shadowing, and field trips

• Reach Ahead Experiences: Activities that connect students with their postsecondary goals, such as visits to colleges, universities, or workplaces.
• Sector-Partnered Experiences: Activities involving industry partners to gain real-world experience.

Example of Experiential Learning 

A Manufacturing SHSM field trip might visit a local manufacturing plant to observe the production process and interact with staff from various departments. They would participate in a hands-on workshop simulating a production line and work on problem-solving activities related to manufacturing.

Career Opportunities: 

        Workplace Pathway:

       Careers such as machinist, welder, CNC operator, or robotics technician.

College Pathway:

Programs like Manufacturing Engineering Technician, Welding Technician, or Robotics Technician.

University Pathway:

Degrees in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Industrial   Engineering.

Apprenticeship Pathway:

      Roles such as tool and die maker, industrial mechanic, or machinist.

*Sample of Elective Certifications for the Manufacturing Sector SHSM