Options 2010

Whether it was in the areas of aesthetics, hairstyling, the culinary arts, hammering together an outbuilding, or just plain changing a tire, St. Joseph's was well represented by a number of entries into the annual Options 2010 event, held this year, once again, in Pembroke.

The activities listed above were just a sampling of the many types of activities hosted by the skills and trades show, showcasing the wide variety of employment opportunities that present themselves for young people here in Renfrew County.

Also present were representatives from the Canadian Forces, government ministries, and relevant agencies who either hire directly or offer support for those seeking employment in one of the many fields on display. As well, a local support group was on hand to offer education on the topic of entrepreneurship, and the beginnings of starting and maintaining one's own business.

In addition to those students competing directly in event-sponsored competitions, four bus loads of grade 8 and grade 10 students from SJCHS were also on hand to take in the many interactive and static displays organized by Options 2010 participants and sponsors, joined by hundreds more students from other schools in the County.

Options 2010 is an extension of a movement to advertise and promote the need for skilled, and highly-paid, trades in the workforce, particularly here in the Upper Ottawa Valley. Simply put, it's intent is to present a variety of meaningful options, other than university or college, for students who approach graduation from high school.