Western School Division (WSD) is getting closer to launching its Piping Trades Vocational Program as part of the Red River Technical Vocational Area (RRTVA). It be begin during the second semester of the current school year.

"Student registration has been going on since last spring. There's a fair number of students registered for that program already and there are a number of them still considering signing up," said WSD Superintendent Stephen Ross. "We've got a temporary location set up for the program next spring and we are about to go through the hiring process for the teacher. So, things are right on track."

Ross noted this program is a very hands on program that will be a great introduction to anything involved in the piping trades.

"It's an introductory part into the piping trades so that might cover something along the lines for someone specializing later on in fields like plumbing, steam fitting, pipe fitting, gas fitting, and anything that has to do with things coming into or out of most buildings," explained Ross. "A lot of people don't always pay attention to that stuff that happens. Certainly it's a very big thing for industry in this area and for the continued growth in our community, because everyone needs that as part of their house."

According to Ross they would like to see around ten students signed up to run the program for its first year and he's confident they will reach the goal.

If you would like to sign up for this program you can do so at Morden Collegiate or at your respective high-school. Ross noted they will be taking registrations until the start of the program or until the program is full.

Ross added that the RRTVA bus system is in place for the program, and will operate just like the other programs the RRTVA offers.