Students from Niagara College are taking initiative beyond the classroom by connecting with youth and inspiring the next generation of emergency service professionals.
Police Foundations student Caleb MacDonald, originally from Milton, recently led a group of five fellow students on a visit to the 2990 Lorne Scots Army Cadets in Milton on March 24. A total of 81 cadets attended the session, where they learned about educational pathways and careers in policing and paramedic services.
NC students from L to R: Andrew Macaulay, Finley Jefferess and Caleb MacDonald.
“It was a pleasure to visit the 2990 Lorne Scots Army Cadets and share our experiences at NC,” said MacDonald. “Many of the cadets are at a stage where they’re beginning to think seriously about post-secondary education, and we’re proud to give them a glimpse of what a future in emergency services can look like. ”
Joining MacDonald were Advanced Law Enforcement and Investigations student, Andrew Macaulay, Police Foundations students, Finley Jefferess and Katie Napolitano and Paramedic students, Nathan Pollard and Cora House. Together, the group delivered an engaging presentation that combined personal experiences, academic insights, and hands-on demonstrations.
The visit held special significance for MacDonald, who spent approximately six years with the 2990 Lorne Scots Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps. During his time there, he rose to the rank of Master Warrant Officer (MWO) and held several leadership roles, including Platoon IC, Flag Party IC, Drill Team Commander, and Training Sergeant Major. He also received medals recognizing his long service and community involvement.
“The 2990 The Lorne Scots Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps was pleased to host Caleb MacDonald and the students from Niagara College’s Police Foundations and Paramedic programs for an engaging and interactive presentation,” said Lt. Mihkel Kallasmaa. “Having Mr. MacDonald return as a former Cadet Master Warrant Officer made the experience especially meaningful. We hope this initiative encourages further collaboration with cadet corps and squadrons in communities across the region.”
Paramedic students explain what tools paramedic students learn to use when speaking to the 2990 Lorne Scots Army Cadets.
The primary goal of the visit was to promote Niagara College’s Police Foundations and Paramedic programs while giving cadets the opportunity to interact directly with current students. The presentation included a slideshow and interactive demonstrations featuring equipment such as a duty belt and tactical vest, offering cadets a firsthand look at the realities of emergency service careers.
“I’m extremely proud of Caleb and his peers for their initiative and their willingness to share their experiences at NC,” said Scott Wade, Associate Dean of the School of Justice and Fitness. “Seeing students so dedicated to promoting their programs speaks volumes, and I have no doubt they will go on to achieve great things after graduation.”
MacDonald first learned about Niagara College through friends and chose the Police Foundations program because it aligned with his cadet background and career interests, as well as the College’s strong connections with regional law enforcement.
Members of the cadet corps who were in attendance valued hearing from a former member who has successfully transitioned into post-secondary education and welcomed the opportunity to learn more about NC. Experiences like this highlight the importance of mentorship and demonstrate how students can play an active role in shaping the aspirations of those who follow.
“We greatly appreciate the resources and support provided by Niagara College,” added Kallasmaa. “This collaboration not only benefits our cadets by providing greater insight into potential educational and career pathways but also strengthens the connection between the Canadian Cadet Organization and the broader community of law enforcement and emergency service professionals.”
81 individuals from the 2990 Lorne Scots Army Cadets heard from NC students from the School of Justice and Fitness and the School of Allied Health about the Paramedic and Police Foundations programs.
