Celebrating dedication and innovation in education, the Kamloops-Thompson Board of Education recently honoured Thompson Rivers University (TRU) trades faculty member Jim McCarthy with the second annual Board Award of Recognition.
Known for transforming the educational landscape, McCarthy’s inspiring work as a welding and fabrication instructor at TRU and NorKam Secondary has set new benchmarks for fostering inclusive learning and supporting marginalized students. Through his involvement in community initiatives and his commitment to student empowerment, McCarthy exemplifies the essence of educational leadership, which this prestigious award seeks to recognize annually.
Known for his volunteer work with the United Way and various community groups, McCarthy dedicates himself to helping students uncover their potential and contribute positively to their communities. Students describe his classroom as an inclusive refuge, where individual authenticity is embraced.
Pictured left to right: Kamloops-Thompson Board of Education Chair Heather Grieve and TRU welding instructor Jim McCarthy.
McCarthy’s approach, blending teaching and active listening, earns him praise as a mentor and educator. Students commend him for creating an engaging and respectful learning environment, where practical skills and personal expression are equally valued. One student described him as “a bundle of goodness,” while others credit his motivating teaching style with inspiring them to pursue careers in welding.
Remarkable projects spearheaded by McCarthy include initiating NorKam’s Mechanical Sampler classes, constructing an Indigenous-themed gazebo that will be displayed at TRU and creating a reconciliation-themed bench located at NorKam’s main office. His innovative partnership with Insight Support Services offered students with autism hands-on welding experience, aiming to bridge educational gaps and spotlight diverse career paths.
During the award presentation, Board Chair Heather Grieve expressed the board’s appreciation for McCarthy’s efforts in empowering students to reach their full potential while contributing to their communities. McCarthy, in his acceptance speech, highlighted the critical role of trades education in allowing students to explore various life paths, ensuring both personal and professional fulfillment.
“My work is not just about welding,” said McCarthy. “It’s about worth. It’s about taking young people who’ve been overlooked, underestimated, or counted out—and giving them a trade, a skill, a way in. Without demanding they put on that suit jacket or be anything other than who they are. Kids just like me.
“This award may have my name on it, but it belongs to every student who ever walked into my workshop feeling unsure…and walked out knowing they could make something strong. That they were something strong.”
Story rewritten from the original story published here, with permission of SD 73.
