Blacksmith Workshop - Ethel, ON

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in Blacksmith Workshop 23 or 24 May 2025 is now open. The application deadline is 27 April 2025.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT: This local event will serve as an introduction to blacksmithing. Participants will learn the basics of blacksmithing over one full day introductory session on either Friday 23 or Saturday 24 May 2025, participants will be guided through the construction of two projects, a bottle opener and a second larger project. Assistance throughout the event will be provided courtesy of Upper Canada Forge and Ironworks. All equipment and supplies will be provided to the participants for this event.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 8, Four participants attending each day.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from the Ethel (Kincardine, Goderich, Stratford, Kitchener) area who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

*NOTE FOR SERVING MEMBERS: The selection of serving members for activities outside their local regions for which members will be on TD will align with CAF direction on financial expenditures.

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
Participants will take part in one day only. Friday 23 or Saturday 24 May 2025
0845 – Arrive at Upper Canada Forge and Ironworks conduct Welcome/Safety brief;
0900- 1600hrs - Blacksmithing instruction; and
1600hrs – wrap up and depart.

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Participants are advised that transportation will not be provided by Soldier On for this event. Participants will be required to arrange their own travel to and from the event location and will not be eligible for reimbursement for travel or meals. Lunch will be provided during the conduct of this event. Participants also acknowledge that there will be no alcohol consumption allowed during the conduct of this event.

MENTAL AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Applicants must be able to tolerate 6 hours of light paced activities and applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day. To safely and enjoyably participate in this workshop, participants should have basic hand-eye coordination, the ability to follow instructions, and enough physical dexterity to handle tools and metal pieces. Adaptations can be made to accommodate specific needs. Applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment, applicants also acknowledge that there is no alcohol consumption allowed during the conduct of this event.