Choosing the right Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is about finding your passion. The beauty of SHSM is its diversity—whether you’re interested in technology, the arts, or even agriculture, there’s an SHSM for you. But with 19 different sectors to choose from, it can be tough to know which one is right.

Let’s explore what’s available and help you decide.

1. Agriculture

If you’re fascinated by the science of farming or how food gets from farm to table, the agriculture SHSM might be for you. This program dives into topics like sustainable farming, agribusiness, and the environmental impacts of agriculture.

2. Arts and Culture

Are you passionate about the creative process? The arts and culture SHSM helps students explore careers in everything from visual arts to performing arts, photography, and media production. It’s perfect for anyone looking to combine creativity with a professional career.

3. Aviation and Aerospace

Dreaming of the sky? The aviation and aerospace SHSM lets students explore the fast-paced world of flight, aircraft maintenance, and even space exploration. This major connects you with industry professionals and prepares you for postsecondary programs in aviation or engineering.

4. Business

For students eyeing careers in finance, entrepreneurship, or management, the business SHSM provides the foundational skills needed. From marketing to financial literacy, this program opens doors to a wide range of business careers.

5. Construction

Love working with your hands? The construction SHSM is perfect for those interested in skilled trades. It offers training in carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, and more, helping students develop valuable skills that are highly sought after in the industry.

6. Energy

The energy SHSM focuses on how power is generated, distributed, and used. Whether you’re curious about renewable energy sources or want to work in traditional energy sectors, this program provides critical insights.

7. Environment

With climate change and sustainability front of mind, the environment SHSM focuses on careers that make a difference. It covers everything from conservation to environmental law, helping students build skills for a greener future.

8. Food Processing

Interested in the science behind what we eat? The food processing SHSM takes students inside the food industry, focusing on safety, production, and innovation in food manufacturing.

9. Forestry

The forestry SHSM is all about understanding forests and their role in our ecosystem. From conservation to managing forest resources, this SHSM helps students prepare for careers in environmental science, forestry, and resource management.

10. Health and Wellness

For students passionate about healthcare, the health and wellness SHSM is a gateway into careers like nursing, physiotherapy, or even sports medicine. With real-world experience in hospitals or clinics, this program provides a head start in the healthcare sector.

11. Horticulture and Landscaping

If you’re interested in the beauty of nature and designing outdoor spaces, the horticulture and landscaping SHSM offers hands-on training in plant care, landscape design, and environmental stewardship.

12. Hospitality and Tourism

For students eyeing careers in travel, hotels, or event planning, the hospitality and tourism SHSM is a perfect fit. It covers everything from culinary skills to customer service, preparing students for a fast-paced, people-oriented industry.

13. Information and Communications Technology (ICT)

The ICT SHSM equips students with the skills to thrive in our increasingly digital world. From coding to network management, this program is ideal for students passionate about technology and communications.

14. Justice, Community Safety, and Emergency Services

If you’re interested in law, policing, firefighting, or community safety, the justice and emergency services SHSM offers hands-on learning and training that can lead to careers in public service.

15. Manufacturing

For students curious about how things are made, the manufacturing SHSM focuses on skills like welding, robotics, and industrial design. It’s perfect for those looking to enter the manufacturing or engineering sectors.

16. Mining

Ontario is rich in natural resources, and the mining SHSM gives students the skills to explore this field. From geology to mining operations, this program prepares students for careers in resource extraction and management.

17. Non-Profit, Education, and Child Care

For students who want to make a difference in their communities, the non-profit SHSM is a gateway to careers in education, social services, and community work.

18. Sports

The sports SHSM is ideal for students passionate about athletics, coaching, or sports management. Whether you’re aiming for a career as a trainer or working behind the scenes in sports organizations, this program helps you get there.

19. Transportation

From automotive repair to logistics and shipping, the transportation SHSM offers students hands-on learning in one of the most essential sectors of the economy.

Find Your SHSM

With so many options, the right SHSM for you depends on your interests and career goals. To learn more about each SHSM and how to apply, visit the Ontario Ministry of Education website: https://www.ontario.ca/page/specialist-high-skills-major 

SHSM isn’t just about high school. It’s about preparing you for what comes next—whether that’s university, college, or a career. What’s your next step?