The Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre (Sask DLC) continues to experience strong enrolment growth in its Mechanical and Automotive programs, with more than 400 high school students registered in the 2024-25 school year — more than triple the number from the previous year.
To support this growing interest, students took part in a one-day hands-on learning camp hosted today at Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Saskatoon campus. The event, organized in partnership with Sask Polytech, offered students practical experience and insights from industry professionals, and marked the second such camp held this year.
“It is exciting to see another great learning camp day in partnership between the Saskatchewan Distance Learning Centre and the autobody sector,” said Everett Hindley, Minister Responsible for Sask DLC. “This is an excellent opportunity for DLC high school students from all around the province to experience hands-on learning and gain knowledge right from industry experts.”
In Sask DLC’s second year of operation, enrolment in its mechanical and automotive programming has climbed sharply. Of the more than 400 current registrations, 186 students are completing work placements with local businesses, made possible through a partnership with the Saskatchewan Automobile Dealers Association (SADA).
“Work placements with our member dealers provide students with fundamental practical skills and allow them to make key contacts in the industry,” said SADA Executive Director Larry Heggs.
In 2023-24, 126 students completed more than 4,500 hours in work placements through Sask DLC’s Mechanical and Automotive 10, 20 and 30-level courses. Another 97 students enrolled in an introductory theory-only course.
The camps also provide a glimpse into career options beyond high school, with Sask Polytech offering students the chance to explore its Automotive Service Technician certificate and apprenticeship training.
"We have an excellent partnership with Sask DLC and always appreciate hosting high school students on campus for hands-on training," said Dr. Larry Rosia, Sask Polytech President and CEO. “These one-day camps are a great opportunity to learn more about a career in the automotive industry and discover what Sask Polytech can offer.”
Sask DLC offers six Mechanical and Automotive courses for students provincewide, including blended options that combine online theory with in-person work placements. Students who attend the Sask Polytech learning camps earn six credit hours toward their placement requirements.
In addition to automotive programming, Sask DLC provides work placements in areas such as welding, construction, agriculture equipment, precision agriculture, power engineering, and tourism. Registration for 2025-26 courses is now open at saskDLC.ca. High school students can register through their local school administrator or guidance counsellor.