Technology and the Skilled Trades

TAS10 – Technology and the Skilled Trades introduces students to the dynamic world of trades and technological innovation that powers much of Canada’s infrastructure, economy, and everyday life. This exploratory course provides a hands-on, skills-based foundation for students to understand how construction, manufacturing, transportation, and electrical systems are designed, built, and maintained.

Through active engagement in design challenges, tool-based tasks, and problem-solving exercises, students gain practical experience working with materials, interpreting technical drawings, and applying safe work practices. The course fosters confidence in using both hand and power tools, while instilling a strong understanding of workplace safety standards, including WHMIS and PPE protocols.Through active engagement in design challenges, tool-based tasks, and problem-solving exercises, students gain practical experience working with materials, interpreting technical drawings, and applying safe work practices. The course fosters confidence in using both hand and power tools, while instilling a strong understanding of workplace safety standards, including WHMIS and PPE protocols.

Students are encouraged to think critically about the evolving role of skilled trades in a changing world—from sustainable building practices to advanced manufacturing technologies. By exploring career paths and industry sectors, TAS10 helps students identify areas of interest, understand the value of certification pathways like Red Seal, and envision how they can contribute meaningfully to their communities and future industries.

Whether students are considering a career in the trades or simply seeking real-world, transferable skills, this course builds a strong technical foundation, problem-solving mindset, and appreciation for hands-on learning that will benefit them in any pathway they choose.

Unit 1: Introduction to the Skilled Trades
Students explore what skilled trades are and why they are vital to the workforce. Lessons include:
Lessons include:

• Overview of Skilled Trades in Canada
• Trades vs. Technology Pathways
• Industry Sectors and Red Seal Programs
• Career Profiles and Industry Trends

Unit 2: Safety, Tools, and Workplaces

This unit introduces the safe use of tools, workplace procedures, and hazard awareness. Lessons include:
Lessons include:

• Introduction to Workshop Safety
• Hand and Power Tools
• Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS)
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Responsible Work Habits

Unit 3: Design Thinking and Prototyping

Students learn the design process and apply it to hands-on projects that develop critical thinking
Lessons include:

• The Design and Build Process
• Measuring and Drafting
• Introduction to Prototyping
• Working with Materials
• Collaborative Problem Solving

Unit 4: Trades in Practice
Students explore applications of trades in various sectors through real-world challenges and demonstrations.
Lessons include:

• Construction and Carpentry Basics
• Introduction to Electrical Wiring
• Mechanical Assembly and Repair
• Green Technologies in Trades
• Reflecting on Skill Development

TAS10 assessment emphasizes applied learning, practical performance, and reflective practice:

• 70% of the final grade is based on in-course assignments, tool exercises, design tasks, and hands-on projects.
• 30% of the final grade is based on final evaluations:
  • 10% Culminating practical demonstration or project build
  • 20% Final written exam or technical report

All assessments follow Ontario curriculum expectations and are structured to promote creativity, responsibility, and awareness of skilled trades as valuable career options.