Technology Questionnaire – Is Technology for Me?
The purpose of this questionnaire is to demonstrate the value of Earl of March’s Technology program to potential students, parents, and other interested parties. In particular, we wish to indisputably demonstrate the value of this program for all potential pathways, namely University, College, and Apprenticeship / Workplace. Here is a sampling of what we’re hearing from our graduates
Brianna Saunders, 2011 EOM graduate
What have you done and are doing since leaving the Earl?
Helped in the construction of a single family home and am now pursuing the 3-year Architectural Technology program at Algonquin College.
What Technology courses did you take while at the Earl?
TIJ 1O, TCJ 2O, TMJ 2O, TMJ 3M, TMJ 4M, and TWJ 4E
What are your most memorable experiences from these courses?
My most memorable experience was facing my fear and learning how to weld.
What did you like best about these courses?
Understanding the basics of CAD design and being able to have something rewarding to walk out with at the end of the day, for example a coffee table, screwdriver, chessboard, and lap desk.
Were these courses valuable to you in deciding upon your post-secondary pathway?
These courses were essential to my Architectural decision by broadening my knowledge of trades and construction opportunities. Completing these courses made me aware of my skills and interest in design.
In what ways, if any, were these courses valuable to you after high school?
This program helped me view the hands-on trade opportunities that are unheard of in any other class at Earl and also to understand the workplace in a realistic way.
Is there anything else you would like to share regarding Earl’s Technology program?
The pressure of being influenced to choose university was difficult for me to overcome. Being a part of the small percentage attending college upon graduation, I’m happy with my choice of education and program.
Also, a personal note to all girls: The percentage of girls in grade 12 tech was approximately 5%. Girls, don’t feel intimidated or that trades aren’t for women. Help increase that percentage!
John Van Tuyl, 2007 EOM graduate
What have you done and are doing since leaving the Earl?
I completed my degree in Mechanical Engineering at Queen’s University. I am in the process of applying to Medical School, and am currently traveling around New Zealand. I spent two summers working in the Oil and Gas Industry in Western Canada.
What Technology courses did you take while at the Earl?
Every course I had time for! I took Manufacturing Engineering in grades 11 and 12, and Design Technology (since renamed Custom Woodworking) every year. In grade 12, I volunteered during a spare to help out in a grade 9 Technology class.
What are your most memorable experiences from these courses?
I built a jewellery box that I was really proud of. From design to finish, it was my own and it was really rewarding seeing it come together. Working on a class project in Manufacturing Engineering was a great experience. I felt like I was working for a company, meeting deadlines and solving problems. Now, having worked on large engineering projects, it’s really interesting to see just how similar the experience was!
What did you like best about these courses?
Tech courses are a really nice break from more regimented classes. You have more freedom, and can work on skills that are really unique. These are life skills, and you find yourself using them all the time. In University I was able to get a job at the campus machine shop because of the skills I learned at
the EOM shop. I am a better Engineer because I understand how to design something that can be easily fabricated.
Were these courses valuable to you in deciding upon your post-secondary pathway?
Tech is a great way to find out what you like. Through Tech, you get a taste of many trades and technical professional fields, like Engineering. I like to build and love to design, so I took Engineering. It was a hard decision between that and Welding!
In what ways, if any, were these courses valuable to you after high school?
Companies like to hire Engineers who have had some hands on experience. I worked in the campus machine shop and in the student workshop on my own projects. When it came time to get a summer job, the company that hired me wanted someone who knew their way around a wrench, and I got the job.
Is there anything else you would like to share regarding Earl’s Technology program?
Like most things, the program is most rewarding to the people who put a lot into it. If you come in, get involved, and work hard, you will learn a lot!
Remember, all courses that begin with a “T” or an “I” count towards the Technology Certificate. You need a total of 8 credits to earn the certificate. This certificate is recognized as a clear demonstration of a student’s commitment to Technological Studies.