Rylan's VCC Blog

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What should I do ?

As mentioned in my previous blog post, I plan on taking business related courses to support my transition into the business side of my organization. My background has primarily been focused on instruction and working in industry within the trades, I realize that like anything new we take on we need to expand on our existing skill set to continue to see success. If I wrote this blog post on time I would of talked about how I planned to attend the BC Building Trades conference in Victoria . Well guess what I went!!! It was great, I learned so much about the lobbying process for pushing important initiatives and got to meet some major players in BC politics. I hope to get to the Canadian Building Trades Conference in the near future !! I can say this has gotten me very interested in the political scene and maybe that's the area I may choose to volunteer next ??

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Changing the Way We Think

In the trades, critical thinking is an essential skill that goes beyond textbook knowledge. It's the ability to analyze situations, troubleshoot problems, and make informed decisions on the spot. Unfortunately, many students entering trades programs today lack these crucial skills, largely due to an educational system that prioritizes teaching to the testing and doing the bare minimum to get them out of the public system.

Apprentices face real world situations that don't align with what they've learned and they often struggle to adapt or think critically when confronted with unexpected challenges. This can impact job performance and safety in trades . You most important tool in trades is effective problem solving and being able to critically think.

Reflection plays a key role in developing critical thinking skills and looking to past experiences we can analyze outcomes, and contemplate alternative approaches. Reflection allows for the understanding of theoretical knowledge with practical experience to help foster a deeper understanding of the trade.

References

Changing the Way We Think | Adam Hoots | TEDxClemsonU Changing the Way We Think | Adam Hoots | TEDxClemsonU

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Looking Forward

I’ve had the opportunity to experience working as a full-time instructor but I’ve recently transitioned away from full-time teaching and am committed to completing the PID (Provincial Instructor Diploma) program. This program has been a key contributor in the success of my instructing career, and I hope by finishing it that I will really solidify my skills.

As I move into the business side of things, I’m excited to explore new opportunities that have come my way, with my ever evolving career. To support this I plan to now focusing on expanding my skill set by taking courses that emphasize business management, leadership, and strategic planning. These skills will not only complement my teaching background but also position me to excel in roles that require a combination of educational and business qualifications.

I plan to leverage both my instructional experience and my growing business experience to make a meaningful impact in my organization. I’m confident that if I continue on the path I have mapped out, that I’ll be well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

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Brookfield Chapter 16: Understanding Students' Resistance to Learning

Students' Dislike of Teachers

As an instructor, one of the most valuable skills you can develop is the ability to adapt your teaching style and approach to each individual student need as such like a chameleon changing its colors to suit its environment. This adaptability is crucial for creating meaningful connections and enhancing the learning experience.

Students often provide subtle clues about their interests, experiences, and learning preferences during class interactions. These "breadcrumbs" can be found in the form of questions they may ask, interests they may talk about or even reactions to activities or assignments.

Once you've identified a student's interests you can engage them in a more meaningful way or even tailor assignments to there preferences. Being a chameleon doesn't mean changing who you are as an instructor but finding flexible ways to present that content and connect with each student on a more personal level.

Reference:

Stephen D Brookfield. (2015). The Skillful Teacher: On Technique, Trust, and Responsiveness in the Classroom: Vol. Third edition. Jossey-Bass.

The Teaching Chameleon | Teachers Pay Teachers

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Brookfield Chapter 8: Teaching in Diverse Classroom

Its important to balance between silence and conversation in the classroom both are crucial for effective learning.

In a classroom, the balance between silence and expression is fundamental to becoming a genuine teaching tool. Silence allows students to reflect, process information, and focus on independent work, which is essential for activities like reading, writing, and problem-solving. Some students, especially introverts, need quiet time before they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts.

A speech-filled classroom encourages collaboration, critical thinking, and deeper engagement. Discussions, debates, and peer teaching help students solidify their understanding. However, too much talking can lead to distractions or leave quieter students out.

Strategies like Think-Pair-Share give students silent thinking time before discussion. Structured group work ensures everyone participates. Silent writing exercises help students organize thoughts before speaking.

By mixing quiet reflection with active discussion, teachers create an inclusive classroom where all students can thrive. Balancing silence and speech in teaching requires thoughtful consideration of various learning styles and needs. 

Which do you prefer?

Silence

Conversational

Voting ended onMar 21, 2025

References:

Stephen D Brookfield. (2015). The Skillful Teacher: On Technique, Trust, and Responsiveness in the Classroom: Vol. Third edition. Jossey-Bass.

Silence in the classroom: silent class, studious class? - University of Montpellier

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The Core Assumptions of Skillful Teaching

Brookfield outlines four core assumptions about skillful teaching, all of which apply directly to piping trades instruction.

Skillful teaching is whatever helps students learn. In the trades, this means adapting lessons to different learning styles in some cases apprentices learn best through hands-on practice, while others need clear explanations or visual aids. The best approach is the one that ensures students grasp concepts effectively.

Skillful teachers adopt a critically reflective stance toward their practice. Instructors should constantly evaluate their teaching methods, questioning assumptions like “students should already know this” or “if I demonstrate it once, they’ll get it.” Reflection helps improve instruction based on what truly benefits apprentices.

Skillful teachers need is a constant awareness of how students experience their learning and perceive teachers' actions. Piping instructors must recognize when apprentices struggle with concepts, feel overwhelmed, or misunderstand expectations. Actively seeking student feedback and adjusting accordingly improves learning outcomes.

College students of any age should be treated as adults. Apprentices, regardless of background or experience, deserve respect, autonomy, and responsibility in their learning. Instructors should foster a professional learning environment that mirrors real-world jobsite expectations, promoting accountability and independent problem-solving.

By embracing these four principles, instructors can create a more effective, engaging, and adaptable learning environment.

Reference:

Stephen D Brookfield. (2015). The Skillful Teacher: On Technique, Trust, and Responsiveness in the Classroom: Vol. Third edition. Jossey-Bass.

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Supports for Learning Disabilities in construction trades

In the dynamic world of construction, where every brick laid and beam placed shapes the future of the industry , apprenticeships play a vital role in sustaining the industry's future. Apprenticeships are more than just learning opportunities; they're investments in the future of skilled labor. In the construction trades, supporting apprentices isn't just about passing on knowledge; it's about fostering a culture of mentorship, safety, and excellence .Supporting apprentices in the construction trade is important for the industry's sustainability and growth. It's interesting how the landscape of the construction industry has evolved over time. When I started in trades we definitely had surplus of skilled labor or even a different mindset within the industry about supports for apprenticeships and other resources available. The idea of needing support was viewed as a sign of weakness rather than an essential need. Now companies understand that apprenticeships need continued support and to adapt to the wide variety of supports that me be needed to make sure that apprentices from all backgrounds can thrive and reach their fullest potential.

Ill attach this link to what my organization does to help support apprenticeships. Supporting Apprentices with Learning Disabilities in the Construction Trades - SkillPlan

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Water cooler talk on Credentials

My learning partner and I dedicated the majority of our conversation to discuss the evolving trends within our respective fields and our own career paths and why we have decided to go on the journeys we have. We discussed why we have or are planning to switch roles, the demand within our industry, or even exploring different sectors driven by aspirations for a better work-life balance, or the desire to make a greater impact in our daily work. We discussed the topic of the uncertainty in today's world and how it could potentially influence the trajectories of our professions and our individual careers.

We acknowledged the enduring workforce demands projected for healthcare and the trades and we recognized the importance for continual upskilling and reskilling within our sectors. With the ever changing landscape of society you can never be to complacent and some of us combat this complacency with furthered education.

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Trends in Adult Education - Virtual reality

In recent years, technological advancements have changed the landscapes of various industries, and the building trades is no exception. One of the most interesting innovations making waves in the construction industry is virtual reality (VR) technology training.

I can say I was skeptical when I first heard VR was going to be apart of trades training process but the more I get involved with different organizations and see how successful it has been I can say It will be a valuable tool for a lot of organizations . It will benefit tradespeople, newcomers to the sector or really any one involved construction, VR offers invaluable opportunities for training and skill development. Virtual reality simulations allow workers to practice real life tasks and scenarios in a safe, controlled environment, reducing the risk of incidents and errors on the job site. You can do anything from operation of heavy equipment to plumbing installation, VR training programs provide hands-on experience without the need for physical materials or equipment. The instant feedback upon performing the task correctly ensures that workers are trained quickly, effectively, and safely.(Pike, J 2020)

Virtual reality is re constructing training in the building trades industry, offering unprecedented opportunities for visualization, training supports, collaboration, and innovation. As VR technology becomes more accessible and advanced, its impact on construction will only continue to grow, paving the way for a future where virtual reality is an integral part of every stage of the apprenticeship.

REFERENCES

P.E.I. newcomers using virtual reality to learn trade skills | CBC News

Pike, J. (2020) Augmented reality.......

Augmented reality to provide new skills for manufacturing workforce education - Purdue University News

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Trends in your field

One of the largest changes I’ve seen since entering the trades in the early 2000s is the advancements in green technologies that are being implemented in the building trades. This is having a snowball effect for a lot of trades, as we talk more and more on the effects we have on the environment as individuals and as organizations. Now projects start to look at the carbon footprint they leave behind and how they may be able to minimize that.

One of those green initiatives to consumers on green technologies is heat pumps and I’m sure most have seen a BC Hydro commercial or have gotten an email about it and would like to hear about something new. Well, you’re in luck I want to go a different route and talk about the push on green concrete for major projects. Concrete is expected to make up 12 percent of greenhouse gas emissions by 2060 (Colleen Ross, 2021). This is a material we see every day beneath our feet or in the building we work and live in. Now that this is a talking point in the construction world, it has caught the eye of the major players in the concrete world. The “Global Cement and Concrete Association” as they have promised to be carbon neutral by

In Canada the push to get there has already started by reducing the amount of carbon released by using a lower carbon fuel source. Adam Auer, vice-president of environment and sustainability with the Cement Association of Canada (CAC), said that almost all cement producers in Canada use some portion of lower-carbon fuel, such as waste biomass, which is mostly wood left over from things like construction and demolition. (Colleen Ross, 2021). The industry in Canada is also trying to lower the footprint by changing the makeup of the cement. I believe if proven successful the biggest game changer could be with the use of carbon capture technology and currently there are two-pilot project in Western Canada. Those project are the Lehigh Hanson's Edmonton cement facility and Lafarge Canada's plant in Richmond, B.C. The CAC estimates these measures could reduce emissions by up to 95 per cent. (Colleen Ross, 2021)

Reference

Ross , C (2021) How do you make concrete more environmentally friendly

How do you make concrete more environmentally friendly? | CBC News

Climate Ambition : GCCA (gccassociation.org)

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My life at the moment

Trying to balance work and now homework !!!! If this looks like a good time you should check out the VCC School of instructor Education on the Facebook link below

(1) Facebook

#PIDPlife

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I want to welcome you all to my blog!!! My name is Rylan and I have been involved in one way or another in trades since I was 18. I’ve worked in the mining industry for 12 years getting opportunities to explore a variety of different mines across western Canada before deciding to settle down in the East Kootenays where I worked in a coal mine for 10 years and was able to achieve two Red seals. I have now transitioned into the training and support side of trades, now working for non for profit where we specialize in a wide variety of supports for those wanting to get involved with trades or those already involved.

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