Every now and then a truly great idea comes along and the latest instance of that can be found right here in Pembroke.
Matt Fraser is the President of the newly formed “Pool and Spa Trade School” and President of Blok Pools and Hot Tubs on Bennett Street.
As Canada’s first school focused solely on careers in the pool and spa industry, the Pool and Spa Trade School fills a critical skills gap. They provide entry-level training and real-world experience, preparing students with confidence. With strong industry ties and a practical, career-focused curriculum, they help drive growth and professionalism across the sector. Matt himself explains:
With accreditation pending in about 4 months time, Matt intends to begin offering synchronous online courses within Ontario and will eventually open up to the whole country.
The school also offers work placement where the hands-on learning prepares students for smooth transitions into the workforce. The benefits to employers of graduates are numerous as they would be hiring motivated students trained in pool and spa operations, maintenance, and customer service. Prices and duration of the courses vary, says Fraser, with Introductory courses right through to Business and Leadership Training and everything in between offered by the “H20 Trade Skills Academy”.
At a grand opening ribbon cutting ceremony this past Wednesday evening, MPP Billy Denault, Pembroke Mayor Ron Gervais and MP Cheryl Gallant presented Fraser and his Team with official documents of congratulations and Gallant had this to say about the truly unique new offering in The Valley:
MPP Billy Denault also weighed in with comments for Matt and his Team:
For more information on the school and all of the courses available please head to their website.
(Written By: Richard Evans)
