A Belgian exchange student who chose to study in Chatham-Kent because of her passion for motorsports has been recognized for her achievements in John McGregor Secondary School’s Transportation Technology program.
The Grade 12 student earned the program’s Mechanic’s Hand Tool Award, presented annually to top students demonstrating excellence in technical ability, academics and leadership.
Unable to transport the tool set back to Belgium, she chose to pass the award on to the second-place student.
She also became heavily involved with the JMSS #57 Race Team and was selected by fellow students to serve as crew leader.
“Thea’s experience demonstrates the outstanding opportunities available to students in our Transportation Technology program. Not only did she excel in the classroom and shop, but she became an integral leader on our race team. We are incredibly proud of her accomplishments and grateful for the impact she made on our school community,” said transportation technology teacher James Stonehouse.
“When an international student chooses a school because of one of its technology programs, it speaks volumes about the quality of learning taking place,” said Lambton Kent District School Board chief executive officer Gary Girardi. “John McGregor Secondary School’s Transportation Technology program is providing students with exceptional experiences that are attracting attention well beyond our local community. This recognition reinforces the incredible work of our staff and students and demonstrates how skilled trades education can open doors and inspire young people from around the world.”
