Thompson RCMP got a hand with their evidence storage, thanks to the R.D. Parker Collegiate Advanced Construction 40S class.

The project was driven by a long-standing need for improved storage of evidence at the detachment in the Public Safety Building at 122 Selkirk Ave., and was facilitated by the students studying cabinetry.

Students involved in the construction and installation of the cabinets were, Robert Caldwell, Matthew Gillis, Dallas Miles, Zackarrie Pittman, Danika Tait, Megan Thorne, along with instructor William Hamon.

Hamon says the project was a great fit for the construction program and has built a positive relationship between the school and the RCMP.

“I think this was a good fit for us because, the RCMP had a need and an idea, but it wasn’t constrained by a really tight timeline,” said Hamon, “so we were able to fit their idea in with our existing curriculum and with our student availability.”

The cabinets were installed at the RCMP detachment on May 31, and each student was presented with a certificate of appreciation from the RCMP.

Hamon says that the learning experience for the students went beyond that of just the hands on work they completed in the class.

“This helps them to understand that carpenters are service people and if there isn’t any need then we’re out of a job,” said Hamon, “so this job really helped them realize where they fit in with the community and how they can earn a living.”

Sgt. Steve Fassbender spearheaded the initiative from the RCMP side of the project and says that the RCMP are very grateful for the work the students have put it.

“We had a need for more storage space and I thought, why not involve the high school,” said Fassbender, “so I went to the school and Mr. Hamon graciously accepted the project and him and the students got to work on the design and build. It’s a great thing for our office and it’s a great thing for the community.”

The cabinet build and install marks the first collaborative effort between the RCMP and R.D. Parker of it’s kind in Fassbender’s time in Thompson and says he wouldn’t hesitate to involve the school again for any projects in the future.