GNS: Students Learn About Cutting Edge Careers

In December, the Environmental Stewardship class from Grande Cache Community High School went on a field trip to a local sawmill, Foothills Forest Products, owned by Dunkley Lumber Ltd. At the sawmill, students met with experienced workers and specialists in the field to learn about forestry and the various careers that are available in the industry. The students learned about how roles in automated systems in Forestry, as well as other industries, are growing in demand and application.

The students learned just how valuable it is to have a skill set that includes being able to understand, operate, monitor, and control automatic equipment in a high-tech facility such as the sawmill in Grande Cache.

One aspect of Forestry that was highlighted during their visit was the impact of Forestry on the natural environment. Students learned that forest conservation through sustainable logging practices and tree planting is in everyone’s best interest, including the sawmill. The students learned about the ways in which the sawmill supports balancing the needs of the environment, society, and culture.

The tour of the mill itself was very exciting. Students observed first-hand how logs enter the mill and are cut into lumber of various dimensions. The cutting-edge (pun intended!) technological upgrades recently installed at the sawmill make processing wood safer and much more efficient. Computer systems are able to scan each log to optimize its product and reduce waste, of which there is very little.

The Environmental Stewardship class would like to thank the employees at Foothills Forest Products for providing such a valuable experience. Grande Cache Community High School looks forward to the next time they can take a group of students for a tour of the mill!