T.O.P.

Elsipogtog First Nations (also known as Big Cove) in NB, has a population of 3000, half of whom are under 25 years of age, it is also the largest Mi’kmaq community in NB. Elsipogtog community leaders are very eager to develop and maintain strategies for training and employment for their adults. According to one Elder Lionel Levi, “skilled labor is a goal for the Native community, and a way to create long-term, self-governed Aboriginal trade careers.”

The Elsipogtog Trades Orientation Program (T.O.P. 2009) was created and designed by New Brunswick Community College and the Elsipogtog leaders to orient students into skilled labor and training. In one year, First Nation students can experience trades: carpentry, electrical, plumbing, automotive, and interior finish without having to leave home.

My role was to provide training within the areas of computer hardware & software, personal finance, and life skills. This was the beginning of my journey-and after assessing my year of teaching and learning outcomes, I knew that further research into designing and integrating ICT with First Nations curriculum was not only needed, but required.

Sixteen students graduated, and (with their permission) I'd like you to meet three: starting on the left - Ben, Ray and Adam.