On March 12, five alumni returned to campus to support our students during Trades Day, an annual event that introduces students to careers in the trades. From plumbing and aviation mechanics to barbering, culinary arts, and steam fitting, students had the opportunity to hear directly from alumni who’ve built successful careers in hands-on, high-demand fields.
We’re grateful to the following alumni for sharing their time, experience, and advice:
- Jack McDevitt ’78 – Aviation Mechanics Specialist
- Chris Clement ’76 – Plumber and Owner, Chris Clement Plumbing & Heating
- Wesley Thorn ’14 – Barber and Owner, Black Ice Barber Lounge
- Pete Klein ’87 – Director of Training, Steamfitters Local 420
- Paul DiBona ’98 – Chef and Owner, Pepperoncini Restaurant and Bar (Conshohocken, PA)
Here's what some of our Trades Day Mentors said about their experience:
Pete Klein '87, Director of Training, Steamfitters 420
"Thank you again for the invitation to speak with the students. I have no greater responsibility than helping a young person looking for and needing direction in a high-quality mechanical trade career.
Speaking at Bonner & Prendie is special because of my alumni relationship with the school. The school played a large part in shaping who I have become – career-wise and as a man. The teachers and guidance counselors took pride in every day and had the patience and wherewithal to deal with teenage students and usher them into young adults. That tradition must continue.
Participating in Trade Day allows me to give back. One way to enhance Trade Day for the Steamfitters would be to offer students the opportunity to tour our Training Facility firsthand. I would love to host some Bonner & Prendie students to showcase our facility, let them see our apprentices in action, and get a real feel for Local 420. Thanks again, Jack!"
Chris Clement '75, Chris Clement Plumbing and Heating
"I was excited to come back to Bonner & Prendie because I value my time there. I received such a great education and support from the priests and teachers during my 4 years as a student. I was fortunate to be part of the Vo-Tech program at Bonner, which allowed me to begin to learn about the skilled trades as a career option. I feel it is important to come back to Bonner & Prendie to share my career story and maybe pass along some advice. I also want to talk about how this school helped shape me as a person and a man. Thanks again for the invitation, and I look forward to doing it again in the future."
Interested in becoming an alumni mentor at a future event?
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