The Tools for Success

Holy Spirit High School
Conception Bay South, NL

When Scott Fifield noticed that the boys overshadowed the girls in his skilled trades class, he didn’t accept the status quo. He created an all-girls class so the girls could learn better – about electrical, plumbing, and carpentry.

That decision was a game-changer for tenth-grader, Julia Rose. From the time Julia wired her first circuit, Mr. Fifield saw she had a knack for electrical work. With his guidance and encouragement, Julia went on to win at Skills Canada – the first woman from Newfoundland and Labrador to compete in the electrical category. To date, her collection of medals is heavier than her toolbox.

Julia is now a working electrician. While most skilled tradespeople here in the province are men, Julia is showing other girls and women that these careers are not reserved for the boys. And she is so thankful that Mr. Fifield always believed that too. It changed her learning experience – and her entire future.