Conestoga has been recognized by the Electrical Safety Authority (ESA) for its longstanding commitment to incorporating electrical safety education into skilled trades training.
Adam Davies, chair in Conestoga’s School of Trades & Apprenticeship, accepting the Public Safety Officer’s Special Recognition Award presented as part of ESA’s annual Ontario Electrical Safety Awards. Photo credit: Electric Safety Authority
Conestoga’s Heavy Construction Equipment Operator program, alongside Fleming College’s program, received the 2026 Public Safety Officer’s Special Recognition Award at the Ontario Electrical Safety Awards.
The award recognizes nearly a decade of collaboration between the colleges and ESA to embed electrical safety into the curriculum, helping prepare students to recognize potential hazards before entering the workforce.
The training provides students with important electrical safety knowledge they can carry into their careers, particularly when operating heavy equipment in environments where electrical infrastructure and power lines may be present.
The impact has extended beyond the classroom. Former students have shared real-world examples of how the training helped them identify electrical hazards and make decisions that prevented potentially serious incidents.
“Safety is an essential part of preparing students for careers in the skilled trades,” said Adam Davies, chair in Conestoga’s School of Trades & Apprenticeship. “Our partnership with ESA gives students the knowledge and awareness to recognize electrical hazards and make informed decisions in the field. Building that strong safety mindset before they enter the workforce is something they can carry with them throughout their careers.”
The Public Safety Officer’s Special Recognition Award was presented as part of ESA’s annual Ontario Electrical Safety Awards, which recognize individuals and organizations for their efforts to advance electrical safety across the province.
The recognition highlights the value of incorporating industry-informed safety training into skilled trades education and preparing graduates with the knowledge to identify hazards and make safe decisions on the job.
Conestoga’s School of Trades & Apprenticeship delivers skilled trades and apprenticeship training designed to provide students with the practical skills and experience required to succeed in the workforce.
Learn more about Conestoga’s Heavy Construction Equipment Operator program.