Whitecap Dakota Chief Darcy Bear, students Alyssa Vidmar and Jordan Umpherville, Saskatoon Catholic Schools Board Chair Diane Boyko and John Povhe of Superior Cabinets in front of the house the students built for Whitecap.

E.D. Feehan High School students recently handed over a house to the leaders of the Whitecap Dakota First Nation as part of their school construction program.

Jordan Umpherville and Alyssa Vidmar were drawn to the E.D. Feehan construction program because of their interest in working with their hands. “That and I suck in school but I knew where I wanted to go,” said Alyssa at the presentation of the house to Chief Darcy Bear and Councillor Frank Royal. School board dignitaries and proud teachers and instructors and sponsors were also on hand to witness the moment. “This program gave me skills that I use on the site everyday and I wind up telling people 20 years older than me what to do.”

The students earn apprenticeship hours in the summer program and skills like electrical, plumbing and carpentry that apply on any construction site. The house then goes to Whitecap where it is placed on a foundation and made ready for a family.

Jordan Umpherville believes she is now ready for a career in the trades. “This hands on experience is so important and gets you going,” she said. “I know it has got me to where I want to be.” 

Related story: Students build another new house for Whitecap Dakota First Nation

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