Programs

Spring 2026 Registration is now CLOSED

Saugeen Sparks Training Centre Presents:

Spring Night Classes 2026

Intermediate Residential Electrical Program
Starting April 15th, 2026 to May 20th, 2026

Intermediate Welding Program
Starting April 15th, 2026 to May 20th, 2026

Wednesday evenings 6:30pm-9:00pm

Saugeen District Senior School (SDSS)
740 Gustavus St, Port Elgin Ontario – Rm 129

No Registration Fee
Participants will engage in hands-on learning in an inclusive and engaging environment.

Welding Program
Registration is capped at 16 participants.

Residential Electrical
Registration is capped at 24 participants

Acceptance Notification
Registrants will receive an e-mail confirming registration for program selected.
Preference given to Grade 11/12 students and grads.

Night School Operating Plan and Program Development

Programs delivered will align with trade apprenticeship standards, primary, secondary and post secondary programing, the Habitat for Humanity Aspire Youth Training program and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship (OYAP) Outreach Program.

Additionally, the Centre’s goal is to work with youth participants, School Boards, and participating Community Colleges to deliver dual credit programs.

Consistent with the Centre’s mandate to provide introductory and intermediate Welding and Electrical programs, the Centre will be delivering two Beginner skills programs this fall at Saugeen District Senior School. The one night a week, 3-hour program will include 2 classes, one offering Introductory Welding and the other will focus on Introductory Residential Electrical.

There is no fee for these programs. The goal is to not only provide experiential skilled trades training, but also to provide further information on next steps to pursuing further education via links to post secondary dual-credit courses, and pathways to labour union pre-apprenticeship programs, upon completing the intermediate programs and specialized summer programs.

For the night class programs, experienced instructors and mentors have been recruited with the requisite skill-sets, prior experience and expertise to deliver the programs in a professional and inclusive manner.

Intermediate Residential Electrical Program

Sparks Training Centre – Spring Night School

April 15th – May 20th 2026

(Wednesday evenings 6:30 – 9:00 pm)

Course information and objectives:
The Intermediate Residential Electrical Program is designed for participants who have completed the Introduction to Electrical program or who possess equivalent foundational skills. This program expands on core concepts and introduces more complex residential electrical tasks, preparing learners for advanced training or practical application in the field.

Learning Approach

  • Hands‑on, project‑based learning
  • Group demonstrations and individualized instruction
  • Continued progression at each participant’s pace
  • Skill development that builds directly on introductory electrical knowledge

What Participants Will Learn
Participants will advance their understanding and capabilities through:

    • Building six electrical circuits
    • Connecting circuits to electrical panels
    • Applying enhanced electrical safety practices
    • Expanding knowledge of electrical terminology
    • Safely using tools and materials in more complex applications
    • Using a multimeter to measure and interpret volts, amps, watts
    • Reading and applying electrical drawings with greater detail
    • Deepening understanding of electrical theory

    Safety Requirements
    Safety remains the highest priority. Participants must:

    • Follow all instructor directions at all times
    • Use all required safety equipment and PPE provided
    • Wear safety glasses (mandatory and supplied)
    • Wear closed‑toed shoes and long pants
    • Avoid loose or dangling clothing, hair, or jewelry.

    Intermediate Welding Program

    Sparks Training Centre – Spring Night School

    April 15th – May 20th 2026

    (Wednesday evenings 6:30 – 9:00 pm)

    Course information and objectives:
    The Intermediate Welding Program is designed for participants who already possess basic welding skills, whether gained through Sparks Training Centre’s Introduction to Welding (Fall program) or equivalent experience. This Intermediate program builds on foundational techniques and prepares committed learners for more advanced training, including the intensive four‑week Specialized Summer Welding Program, where eligible participants may pursue testing with the Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB).

    Learning Approach

    • Hands‑on, project‑based learning
    • Combination of group demonstrations and one‑on‑one instruction
    • Individualized progression at each participant’s pace
    • Continued development from Introductory to Intermediate Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) skills

    What Participants Will Learn
    Participants will develop intermediate proficiency in SMAW (fillet/stick welding), including how to:

      • Safely turn on, set up, and shut down welding equipment
      • Use grinders and hand tools to complete welding tasks
      • Join metal components using arc welding techniques
      • Complete both basic and advanced joints, welding positions and welding techniques

      Pathway to CWB Testing
      Participants who demonstrate readiness for CSA W47.1 fillet welding certification will be introduced to joint welding and may begin working toward CWB “S‑Class” certification testing using the SMAW process.

      Safety Requirements
      Safety is mandatory in all Sparks Training Centre programs. Participants must:

      • Follow the program instructor’s directions at all times
      • At all times use the safety equipment and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) supplied
      • Wear safety glasses (mandatory and supplied)
      • Wear closed‑toed shoes and long pants
      • Avoid loose or dangling clothing, hair, or jewelry.