Recently, grade 10 Saint Malachy’s Memorial High School student, Brandon Eatmon was recognized for his hard work and dedication at Irving Equipment this past summer. Brandon was involved in the PALS En Route to Success Program and made some great impressions during his time at Irving Equipment.

“The En Route to Success Program provides students with an opportunity and an alternate learning environment so they can succeed. It’s very valuable for students to participate in this program because upon graduation, they can add that they’ve had work experience throughout their high school time,” says Susan Tipper, JDI Educational Consultant.

During the PALS in-school portion of the year, Brandon learned alongside a mentor at Irving Equipment for two hours a day (Monday to Friday), which further transitioned into a paid, summer work position. Next year, he will return in the summer to act as a mentor for a new, incoming grade nine student. 

“When I heard about my placement at Irving Equipment, I was quite nervous, as I was only a grade nine student. I also didn’t know what exactly to expect, but the folks at Irving Equipment were very welcoming and I learned a lot about the company during my placement. This summer I’ll be able to show the new grade nine student what I’ve learned during my time at Irving Equipment,” says Brandon.

Ryan Long, Manager of Operations at Irving Equipment, is thrilled with the PALS program as well as Brandon’s work over the summer.

“The PALs program has been fun for us. It gives a chance to work with these young students and hopefully instill some good work habits that will be very valuable in their futures. Brandon has done a tremendous job during his time here at Irving Equipment. He’s a polite and professional young man that has great drive, follows direction, and is always ready to work. He was an asset during his brief time with us, and he’ll be an asset wherever he ends up in life. Our team is looking forward to him back next year,” says Ryan.

Great work, Brandon! 

About PALS

PALS (Partners Assisting Local Schools) is an internationally and nationally honoured anti-poverty initiative, founded in 2000 by Mr. J.K. Irving. PALS has grown to over 30 schools, 150 partners, and hundreds of volunteers.

PALS partners work together to make a positive impact on students’ lives. Help is given in many areas including reading, math, work placements, sports, music and much more.

About PALS En Route to Success

PALS En Route to Success is a four-year pilot program, providing students in grades 9, 10, 11 and 12 with an alternate learning environment. The program is offered for 6 months, during the second semester of the school year (February-August). Summer employment is provided and credits are then obtained for graduating high school.

For more information on this program, please contact Susan Tipper at tipper.susan@jdirving.com