#209 Derek Sousa a Highschool Trade Teacher has a lot to say about teaching the next generation of trades
15 years in the industry with the last 4 being a teacher, Derek wasn’t the best kid in school but in his high school years he found his passion through the woodworking class. Finished school and went right into the union and began working right away. After a few years of doing commercial construction, he got into the carpenters union, followed by the opportunity to work for the school board taking care of things that fall a part or damaged by the students, faculty or age. 4 years ago, he was offered a teaching position by a teacher, the same teacher that taught him who at the time was planning his retirement, Derek never looked back and looks like will be there teaching for a while.
Derek has built his teaching on a simple principle, there is knowledge and there is wisdom, the bridge that connects the two is experience. He’s working on making his class more about a preparation for experience into the real construction life. Derek shares some valuable info when it comes to where the resistance is, parents can be difficult when it comes to allowing their children to follow a career in construction, specifically the moms.
The number one question asked by students to Derek, which trade makes the most money? At an early age these students are focused on money, it’s a double edge because you really should focus on your passion and the money will follow. The way Derek replies, the trade that works the hardest earns the most, well said. We discuss a few ideas about field trips for the student on active jobs sites, they have tried it but things didn’t go too well, Derek further explains.
Of course, we discuss tools, power and hand and Derek has always had great ideas to expand the programs and get more opportunities for the students but everything is pending on school board approval and as he states, it’s about managing pennies. Budgets are tight and that makes things tough for teachers that care, like Derek to continue to add to the course.
Derek ends things by educating all of his kids with the 4 key words in construction, how can I help?
Shared and Discussed Links
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Thank you so much Derek for being on the show and sharing your construction life. Find Derek on IG @augustineconstruction
Want to reach out to Manny, text him on his mobile, 416 433-5737 and or email him at manny@hardcorerenos.com or manny@theconstructionlife.com Please let him know who you are and then ask away.
TCL has and always will be about giving back to the construction industry.
Reach out to Joe and Trevor at the following info. www.venturesxcanada.ca find them on Social Media @venturesxoakville reach them at 289 644-2393 and email oakville@venturesxcanada.com