Launch Pad Instructor Receives 2021 Tradesperson of the Year Award

HANOVER, ON - November 7, 2021: Launch Pad instructor and long-time supporter, Kenny Kilday, received Irwin Canada’s 2021 Tradesperson of the Year Award for his commitment to the trade and his community.

A Bruce Power employee by day, Kilday also teaches welding at Launch Pad, an after school non-profit in Hanover, ON. Kilday worked for over a year with his industry contacts to help the youth center become a CWB certified shop, allowing the program to generate revenue and reinvest it back into the after-school programs.

“These courses introduce them to welding safety and manual welding using the SMAW and GMAW process,” said Kilday. “My hope is they continue learning how to weld to the point of getting a trade job… a future for them to look forward to.”

The Tradesperson of the Year is an annual award given by Irwin Canada to tradespeople who, among other things, empower and educate themselves and others to develop tradecraft skills, innovate with purpose in their tradecraft to solve societal needs, embrace diversity and inclusion, and encourage others through positive attitude and support on the job site.

Kilday was selected out of over 1,200 applicants across Canada. Along with receiving the title of ‘Tradesperson of the Year’, Kilday was awarded a steel trophy with his name on it and a $15,000 prize in cash and Irwin tools.

“We have an incredible team of volunteers and instructors who are all devoted to Launch Pad and work hard to see us grow and succeed. We’re thrilledKenny received this award in recognition for his time and contributions to the youth in our communities but also for the effort he put forward to get us CWB certified, expanding growth opportunities” said Emily Morrison, Executive Director of Launch Pad.

Launch Pad continues to monitor the COVID-19 situations and follows the appropriate precautionary guidelines being recommended by various Canadian health authorities, including the Grey Bruce Public Health, Ontario Health, and the Public Health Agency of Canada.

Launch Pad is an innovative youth centre located in Hanover that empowers Grey Bruce youth. We provide fun and inclusive skill building opportunities to promote career discovery. By working with our community, we lead a team of experienced volunteers to build a variety of skill sets to help our youth succeed.

Launch Pad social channels:
Website: https://mylaunchpad.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/launchpadyatc/
Instagram: https://twitter.com/launchpadyatcTwitter: https://www.instagram.com/launchpadyatc/

-30-

For more information, please contact:

Joshua Weidner (He/Him)
Marketing & Communications Coordinator
Launch Pad Youth Activity and Technology Center
519 506 6300
joshua@yatc.ca