Merit for Training, a service of Merit OpenShop Contractors Association of Ontario (Merit Ontario), is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with W. Ross Macdonald School for the Blind and Partially Sighted aimed at increasing accessibility and equity in the skilled trades. As part of this collaboration, Merit Ontario has donated a heavy equipment simulator to the school, offering students the chance to explore skilled trades, through immersive, hands-on learning.
“At W. Ross Macdonald School, we believe that skilled trades, apprenticeships, and employment are all viable pathways that our students should have the opportunity to pursue based on their individual goals,” said Darren Rorabeck, Guidance Counsellor at W. Ross Macdonald. “This partnership with Merit Ontario enables our students to gain practical exposure to trade skills in a way that is safe, engaging, and empowering.”
The heavy equipment simulator allows students to develop critical skills in a gamified, accessible environment. It also helps to demystify the trades, fostering both confidence and curiosity about careers that may have previously felt out of reach.
“The simulator is a great opportunity for students to get exposure to the operation of heavy equipment machines,” added Joe Howe, a teacher at W. Ross Macdonald. “It’s especially great for students at W. Ross Macdonald to get exposure to machines like this safely; 90% of students will never get to experience outside of the use of the simulator. Many students have impressed me with their ability to pick up controls on the various machines.”
Funded in part by the Government of Ontario and Canada, Merit for Training is committed to providing high-quality construction and safety training courses that strengthen Ontario’s workforce. This partnership with W. Ross Macdonald School reinforces that commitment by extending experiential learning opportunities to students who are blind or partially sighted, helping to ensure that the skilled trades sector is truly inclusive and representative of Ontario’s diverse talent.
“Simulation equipment for students who are partially sighted is incredibly valuable,” said Marisa Parker, Educational Coordinator at W. Ross Macdonald. “It provides a safe and controlled environment for learning and practicing essential skills. The use of this equipment and real-world scenarios provide experiential learning in areas that our students would not likely be able to access any other way. The use of this equipment is exciting for our students and helps them to think more clearly about the trades and some pathways that might be open to them. Awareness of these opportunities is key, as many of our students have skill sets that suit the trades and excel in these areas. Merit’s ability to think outside the box and consider our students as potential members of the workforce is a great step towards raising awareness about the opportunities that exist.”
Student feedback has been overwhelmingly positive:
“I love the simulator. It’s hard at first, but when I get used to it, I’m really good at it.”
“I learn best by doing things. It’s more fun for me to use the equipment instead of just reading about it.”
“I sometimes use equipment like this at home on the farm. It’s fun to do it at school and be able to show my skills.”
While employment outcomes are not the primary goal, the increased visibility of individuals with disabilities in the trades is a powerful and measurable result. Through this partnership, Merit Ontario and W. Ross Macdonald are creating tangible change, challenging stereotypes, expanding career awareness, and helping to build a workforce that reflects the full diversity of our communities.
“We’re thrilled to support students as they explore the trades,” said Troy Heath, Director of Operations & Training for Merit Ontario. “This collaboration is about empowering students with real tools and real experiences and showing the industry what’s possible when we remove barriers and focus on potential.”
About Merit Ontario
Merit Ontario for Training offers e-learning and custom training programs for the construction industry. Catering to all employer sizes, Merit Ontario’s innovative solutions are designed to meet the dynamic needs of today’s and tomorrow’s markets, ensuring flexible and effective training and employment strategies.
About W. Ross Macdonald
W. Ross Macdonald School for the Blind, Partially Sighted and Deafblind is a provincial school located in Brantford, Ontario, serving students from across the province. The school provides specialized, individualized education for students who are blind, low vision, or deafblind, supporting academic achievement, independent living, and career readiness. With a focus on accessibility, inclusion, and experiential learning, W. Ross Macdonald empowers students to reach their full potential in school and beyond.