Mohawk College’s newest Schulich Builders prepare to meet skilled trades demand
Scholarship program helps launch successful careers
As Abigail Cameron begins her postsecondary education at Mohawk College this fall in the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Techniques program, she is starting on a strong footing. Not only does she have the support of her family and high school teachers behind her, but she also has the financial security of a $20,000 Schulich Builders Scholarship.
Abigail first learned about the scholarship opportunity from her high school construction teacher and guidance counsellor. “At first, I thought maybe it was not for me, but my guidance counsellor encouraged me to apply because of the classes I had taken and the path I was pursuing,” she said.
When confirmation of the financial award arrived, Abigail was ecstatic.
“I called my dad and told my mom. I realized I would not have to sacrifice my academics to work,” she said.
Before receiving the scholarship, Abigail expected to work four or five shifts each week to afford college. Even then, she was unsure whether she could cover the cost of tools, transportation and living expenses. The scholarship will give her the freedom to focus on her studies while preparing for the workforce.
“I do not want to sacrifice my grades and have to work just so I can be here,” she said. “This gives me a huge head start.”
Abigail’s interest in the skilled trades began in Grade 10, when her brother introduced her to the possibilities available in the field. Her automotive teacher, Edward Kruis, helped turn that interest into a passion for hands-on work. Other teachers continued to encourage her, with one urging her to follow her dream and consider starting her own company one day.
At Mohawk, Abigail is most excited about learning directly from experienced instructors in a hands-on environment.
After becoming fully certified, she hopes to work in the industrial and commercial sectors before building her own company. “I know it will probably be difficult, but I wanted to set a big goal,” she said. “I got the scholarship, so I might as well use it.”
Schulich Builders Awards
Abigail is one of ten Mohawk College skilled trades students who’ve been awarded prestigious Schulich Builders Scholarships for Skilled Trades this academic year.
In 2023, the Schulich Foundation announced the Schulich Builders Program, dedicated to supporting students who are pursuing careers in the skilled trades. Schulich Builders scholarships are provided to cover tuition, tools and living expenses for students enrolling in a skilled trade program at one of initially 10, but now 12 participating colleges, including Mohawk College. In addition to financial support, Mohawk College provides the Schulich Builders with dedicated wrap-around supports, including career development.
"Congratulations to this year's Schulich Builder Scholars," said Judy Schulich, President of The Schulich Foundation. "The trades offer stable, in-demand careers. We're excited to support these students as they build strong skills to set them up for success."
Mohawk College Manufacturing Engineering Technician – Automation graduate and 2023 Schulich Builders Scholarship recipient, Ben Wernaart was thankful for the funding throughout his college experience. “I was able to focus just on studying. It meant that the free time I had, I could use it to enjoy being in school.”
While a student, Ben competed in Skills Ontario representing Mohawk on the provincial stage. “If I didn’t have the scholarship, I don't think I would have had the time to practice and prepare, especially near the end, with how heavy my school load was,” he said. “If I had to be working part-time during that, it definitely would have been more difficult.” Since graduating this spring, Ben has secured employment with Synagro Technologies on Vancouver Island.
Recent Building Renovation grad and previous Schulich Builders Scholarship recipient, Aaliyah Young-Lalumière has found employment with Burlington’s Grieve Home Maintenance, in their renovation department. "I get to tackle everything from small repairs to major projects like full bathroom, kitchen, basement, and main floor renovations,” she shares. “It’s truly the best place I could have started my career; they are huge advocates for learning through experience.”
Mohawk College President Paul Armstrong applauded the Schulich Foundation’s continued commitment to bolstering skilled trades education.
“Supporting students pursuing careers in the skilled trades is essential to building the workforce our employer partners and communities need,” said Paul Armstrong. “We are grateful to the Schulich Foundation for removing financial barriers to these students, helping them focus on their education to prepare for rewarding, in-demand careers.”
Learn more about the Mohawk College 2026 Schulich Builders:
Devin Bastedo of Terra Cotta, Ont., is a recipient of the $40,000 Schulich Builders Scholarship. A graduate of Georgetown District High School, Devin entered the Electrical Engineering Technician – Power program this fall.
Abigail Cameron of Hamilton, Ont., is a recipient of the $20,000 Schulich Builders Scholarship. A graduate of Bernie Custis Secondary School, Abigail entered the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Techniques program this fall.
Addison Hobin of Welland, Ont., is a recipient of the $40,000 Schulich Builders Scholarship. A graduate of Welland Centennial Secondary School, Addison entered the Building Renovation Technician program this fall.
Antwone “Kelly” Kelly-Drakes of Hamilton, Ont., is a recipient of the $40,000 Schulich Builders Scholarship. A graduate of Cathedral High School, Kelly entered the Manufacturing Engineering Technician – Automation program this fall.
Liam Liristis of Oakville, Ont., is a recipient of the $20,000 Schulich Builders Scholarship. A graduate of Garth Webb Secondary School, Liam entered the Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Techniques program this fall.
Carson Mcrae of Brighton, Ont., is a recipient of the $40,000 Schulich Builders Scholarship. A graduate of East Northhumberland Secondary School, Carson entered the Aviation Technician - Aircraft Structures program this fall.
Hayden Murphy of Hamilton, Ont., is a recipient of the $40,000 Schulich Builders Scholarship. A graduate of Sir Winston Churchill Secondary School, Hayden entered the Electrical Eng Techn - Power program this fall.
Laira Pitre of Hamilton, Ont., is a recipient of the $20,000 Schulich Builders Scholarship. A graduate of Westmount Secondary School, Laira entered the Construction Techniques program this fall.
Brandon Plishka of North York, Ont., is a recipient of the $20,000 Schulich Builders Scholarship. Entering a second career after working in heavy equipment, Brandon is enrolled in the Power Engineering Techniques program this fall.
Cohen Potter of Cayuga, Ont., is a recipient of the $20,000 Schulich Builders Scholarship. A graduate of Cayuga Secondary School, Cohen entered the Power Engineering Techniques program this fall.
About Mohawk College:
Mohawk College is a nationally recognized leader in applied research and education. Located in Hamilton, Ontario, the college serves more than 27,500 full-time, part-time and apprenticeship students annually across four main campuses. It offers nearly 200 industry-led programs spanning health, technology, aviation maintenance, skilled trades and climate action, and operates living classrooms embedded within industry partner sites. Since opening in 1967, more than 180,000 students have graduated from Mohawk College.
About The Schulich Foundation:
The philanthropy of The Schulich Foundation, led by President Judy Schulich, is focused on raising the standard of living for Canadians by supporting high-performing people with promise. The Schulich Foundation is one of Canada’s largest foundations, having committed over $500 million to philanthropic endeavours. Seymour Schulich established and funded The Schulich Foundation. He holds Canada’s highest civilian award, the Order of Canada, and is among Canada’s greatest philanthropists. Having benefited greatly from a scholarship that enabled him to do his MBA, Mr. Schulich has built a well-earned reputation as a champion for education and access to education in Canada. The Schulich Foundation has endowed university faculties of business, engineering, medicine, law, education, music, chemistry, nursing and dentistry; libraries, dormitories, courtyards, medical health centers, lecture and music halls. Over 6,000 scholarships are awarded annually to students in Schulich Schools.
The Foundation’s flagship initiative is the $200 million Schulich Leader Scholarships program, spanning 20 universities across Canada, in support of entrepreneurial-minded students pursuing STEM education. Following the success of this program, $50 million was committed to create Schulich Builders: Scholarships for Skilled Trades at 12 colleges in Ontario.