Programs Offered

This is where your trades journey begins! Check out the programs we are currently offering... but check back often, as new offerings are added each semester!

Textiles

My name is Chelsea Cameron and I teach Textiles 10. I completed my Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education at St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia. During the B.Ed. program, I took some Family Studies courses that covered topics within our Textiles 10 course. This experience gave me the confidence to try something new and teach the Textiles 10 course at ESPHS. Inspired by my grandmothers and the introductory classes taught in middle school, I asked for a sewing machine for my 12th birthday. Although I didn't pursue a career in the textiles industry, I still carry the joy that comes from sewing something with my own two hands and am excited to pass on this joy to my students. The Textiles 10 course is something I look forward to teaching each day, and one of my favourite things thus far has been seeing the skills and talents our students already possess. Watching students with no sewing experience grow their skill sets and witnessing students who struggle with traditional classes flourish in the textiles room as they work kinesthetically and creatively, is a great joy.

Cosmetology

My name is Elizabeth Ferrier and I teach Hair. I started working in the hair industry as a shampoo girl when I was 13 years old. I have been working as a hairstylist for 16 years. Hair has always been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember.

I attended hair school at Blanche MacDonald in Vancouver and moved back to my hometown of Yellowknife after graduating. I apprenticed under Jennifer Payne who soon became my business partner in a small salon that we opened in 2013, which I still own and manage today.

Teaching hair was always a goal of mine, so when the opportunity arose to teach the hair program at St. Patrick's High School I was thrilled. Skilled trades provide considerable value to our communities and allow students to explore rewarding careers prior to, or early upon graduation. I truly enjoy the opportunity to teach the concepts of hair health, styling, cutting and colouring with inspiration from many years in the industry.

Metalwork

My name is Reece Head and I teach Welding at KCTC. I grew up in Yellowknife and I'm also a former student of ESPHS! I started my apprenticeship in the NWT working for Aurora Ford Mining up at Ekati Diamond mine, north of Yellownife, and finished it in Newfoundland. I moved back to Yellowknife in 2023 to pursue my dream of inspiring students to get into the trades and become successful after High School. My favourite thing about ESPHS is the friendliness and community that we consistently have year after year between students, staff and parents. I can't forget about Challenge Cup... GO IRISH!! Fun fact: I have a crazy obsession for Sportbike motorcycles.

Power Technology

My name is Ulli Nolting and I teach Power Technology at the KCTC. I was born in Yellowknife and once I completed my Education Degree at the University of Alberta I began my career with Yellowknife Catholic Schools. Twenty years later I still enjoy working with students and teaching them with the same compassion and respect I received as a student myself. Fun fact: when I have the time I like to restore classic vehicles and give back to the community through coaching various sports.

Woodwork

My name is Josh Bolstad and I teach Woodwork and Construction at KCTC. I grew up in Yellowknife and, like Reece, I'm a former student of ESPHS. I completed my Red Seal Carpentry training through Aurora College in Fort Smith, and then returned to Yellowknife to start Back Bay Contracting. My favourite thing about ESPHS is the wide variety of things kids can do at this school. Fun fact: I enjoy spending my free time on the land.

Electronics & Robotics

My name is Santhosh John and I teach Electronics & Robotics. I completed my MSc, majoring in Physics and my BEd from the University of Kerala, India. I have been a physics, mechanics, and electronics teacher for a long time. I always combine practical experience with a solid theoretical foundation to make difficult scientific and technical subjects understandable and interesting for students. Moreover, I connect them to practical uses, especially in STEM-related fields. ESPHS is my favorite school so far because of the amazing and supportive staff and students. Fun fact about me - I love to play cricket and I don’t find many people here to play with me.

Culinary Arts

Culinary Arts is offered over at St. Pat's main building, and is also responsible for providing lunch service at the Rock Cafe!

Aviation

Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, ESPHS students will be able to participate in an aviation training program through our partenership with Super T Aviation and Summit Air. They will work toward earning their Private Pilot's License!

Lifeguarding

Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, ESPHS students will be able to participate in a Lifeguarding training program through our partnership with the City of Yellowknife. They will work toward earning their Bronze Cross and Bronze Medallion, Lifeguard Certification with CPR and First Aid, and their Aquatic Instructor Certification.

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