I do feel more confident about exploring my career options because now I know that there are women out there that have fought for what they wanted and if they can do it, so can I. The most important thing I learned from my role model was that no matter what, you never give up in what you believe in. She said if you study hard and keep trying you'll get what you want.

Meaghan O’Handley, 2002 Techsplorer, Canso Academy

The Techsploration Program really adds that bonus to my job as a Guidance Counsellor. First, by expanding my knowledge of career choices, and second, by the fabulous opportunities I get to share with the girls - like snorkeling in April....! They will never forget this amazing experience!

Susan MacDonald, team leader 2006, Springhill Jr. Sr. High

I am just writing you to tell you how I am doing in my Carpentry!  Well, I am in my second year now and I love it so much; taking a trade, I think, was the best thing that could ever happen to me…I think I am living my dreams!

Whitney Josey, Techsploration Scholarship Recipient 2005

Thank you to the organizers of Techsploration for the opportunity to meet six wonderful young women and their teachers from Dr. J. H. Gillis Regional in Antigonish.  This experience as a Role Model is something that I will cherish for years to come.

Murna MacKinnon, School Team Role Model 2002

I think this program will give me better teamwork skills, more strength as being a female and better indication of what I want my future to become. Myself, I want to make something of my life and make a difference. Also, in years to come, I hope to be a role model to younger females.

Sami, Techsplorer 1999, Canso Academy

I got to learn a lot myself and I found it a rewarding way to get to know the girls. I was able to see a lot of firsts for the girls - first time to use chopsticks, one girl stayed in a hotel for the first time.

Part of the conditions for our team is to keep up academically. When we went on our workplace tour, the girls did not want to fall behind in school. They arrived at the hotel, and did the fun things such as shopping and swimming. In a display of maturity after their time in the pool, the girls all took out their homework and did it together. Then they watched the Discovery Channel and went to sleep. They had a lot of fun together but realized they were there to learn.

Christy, Teacher 2006

An alumnae student has told me more then once that she has her 1st job because of Techsploration.  After doing a public speaking activity with Cindy Day 2 years ago, her confidence level soared. She is a waitress now and not at all afraid of talking to people or doing speaking activities in school. She was very eager to come back as an invited alumnae guest!

Karen Wamback-Harris (teacher), Shelburne Regional High 2007

The Future of the job market is in the area of trades and technology. Providing this chance to young women will help keep them wanting to and living in Nova Scotia.

Jane Berrigan (Teacher), Bridgewater Jr. / Sr. High, 2007

I've recruited for Mobil for nearly 10 years encouraging young people toward challenging careers, but I've not ever participated in an event as powerful as Techsploration. Congratulations on the success of an exceptional program! I hope to have the privilege to participate again."

Bryn Walters, Drilling Engineer, Techsploration Team Role Model

As most of you know my wife Susie has returned to university (Acadia) this year and one of her courses is Women’s Studies. Yesterday she was in class with her group when the Instructor asked them to break into groups of four to discuss ways that society impedes the understanding of women’s issues, and then report back to the class. Susie joined three other ladies, all first year students, for the discussion.  One of the young women commented that she had a really good experience in school when she was in grade nine.

OF COURSE YOU KNOW WHERE THIS IS GOING.....

She had been in Techsploration and had Cindy Day as a mentor. Upon hearing this one of the other girls in their group said that she had been in Techsploration as well and had a plumber for a mentor.

Their discussion continued around Techsploration, going into great detail to explain it to the other young lady who had not heard of it.  In the end, the group reported back to the class about the turn that their discussion had taken, and as it turned out Techsploration was the only positive point that was raised by the entire class.

Peter Mowat
College Prep Coordinator, NSCC /
Techsploration Program Advisory Committee member

I would recommend the Techsploration program to other teachers interested in participating. The Techsploration Volunteers are very supportive and organized - they make the experience such a positive one.

Rosette Jreige, teacher 2006