Kayala Knight was confident her chosen career path, a future in the computer engineering or computer programming field, was a definite. Possessing strong system skills and having excelled in mathematics, Knight knew she would be a good fit in the demanding industry.

"I've always enjoyed working with my hands, taking apart and repairing TVs, VCRs -- anything at home that wasn't working," says OYAP carpentry student Kayala Knight (right), here with co-op teacher Archie McKean.

"I was more than prepared to follow through and pursue a career in this area, but I felt there was something lacking in my desire," Knight says.

Then, a guest speaker appearing at Knight's high school spoke of a variety of apprenticeship programs available to students, one of which was carpentry. Knight felt something click immediately.

"I knew right then that this was what I wanted to do. I've always enjoyed working with my hands, taking apart and repairing TVs, VCRs -- anything at home that wasn't working."

Knight was advised there was only one available position in the course. In order to be considered, she would have to transfer schools, participate in a series of interviews and be approved by three independent supervisors involved with the specific program.

"Although I had absolutely no shop training or experience, I took the initiative and applied for the course," she says.

Her exceptionally high marks in math and geometry, as well as her positive attitude, were key factors in Knight being chosen as a participant in the course.

Currently working in an eight-week placement with Local 27, Knight is one of only three females out of about 100 students involved in the program.

"It's not a male/female thing with me," Knight says. "I'm not looking for any special treatment because I'm female and I'm not given any. I want to do this on my own merits. I don't want to give anyone the opportunity down the road to say I got where I'm at because I was given a break."

The program demands a lot from its students -- lateness and a drop from the mandatory 60% average in all areas warrants a students dismissal from the course.

"We're on a first name basis with our instructors. Their motto is 'carpenters first, teachers second'. They're very supportive in their efforts," she says.

An extremely determined individual, Knight dedicates a majority of her own time studying to familiarize herself with the trade and industry terminology. Her strong background in math has been beneficial.

Education requirements Students must complete a minimum of three in-school credits per year. Schools are required to monitor the program offered in the workplace to ensure it meets secondary school credit requirements. To receive their high school diploma, students must still complete all compulsory credits. Apprenticeship requirements Students must be placed with a qualified employer. Students must follow an on-the-job training program based on the specific standards for the trade. They may also receive related theoretical instruction. How to apply To apply to the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, contact your school's guidance department or your local apprenticeship office. Visit www.youthjobs.gov.on.ca or call the training hotline at 416-326-5656 or at 1-800-387-5656 for more information. -- Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities

"You really have to be on the ball with math. It's essential that you're able to provide figures off the top of your head in this industry," she says.

Her efforts and dedication have certainly paid off -- Knight is currently one of the top students in the course.

Attending the course, studying and working part-time, Knight, who lives on her own, relies on the endless support provided by her mother.

"She's been absolutely wonderful," Knight says. "I really don't know what I would do without her. She's well aware of all the late nights I put into this and brings dinner by. When I told her of my decision to pursue carpentry as a profession, she never questioned it. Actually, she advised me that several members of my extended family in Trinidad were carpenters. I couldn't believe it! I really had no idea."

Knight realizes there are sacrifices on the road to success.

"Mikey (Knight's boyfriend) knows how committed I am to successfully completing the course. It doesn't leave a lot of time for him but he continues to support me in my efforts."

Her future plans include writing her CFQ (Certificate of Qualification) exam, which will permit her to work in the carpentry industry in North America, England and Russia, making top wages. The program usually takes three years to complete.

"I'm going to do it in two and a half," says Knight. "I plan on starting my own business. I've been given the opportunity to earn an income and gain the required experience in this industry. It's important to me to give that back to the community. I want to be able to pass it along to those wanting to become carpenters by providing training and education in my own business."

Knight's personal philosophy in life, "a positive attitude equals success," says it all.

(Arlene Gerbasi is a Toronto-based freelance writer who can be reached at AGerbas1@aol.com.)



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