Dustin and Zach: A couple's NSCC journey of defying the status quo
A shared path to education
After years of following what he calls the "status quo" through university education, Dustin Newell found himself searching for a different path. His journey took him across Nova Scotia, from the South Shore to Dartmouth, Wolfville, and finally Yarmouth. It wasn't until he witnessed his partner Zachery Munroe-MacKenzie's positive experience at NSCC's Burridge Campus that Dustin began to see where his own future might lie – in the skilled trades.
While Zach enrolled in the IT Generalist program at Burridge Campus, Dustin chose the Electrical Construction & Industrial program at Shelburne Campus. Now, the couple have graduated together and are celebrating the achievement. "It almost doesn't feel real," they shared. "We are so unbelievably proud of each other."
Their success came through mutual respect and understanding. "The biggest key to our success was respecting each other's time, especially when it came to assignments and study time," they explain. With different program schedules, respecting space and time became crucial to their academic achievement.
Breaking barriers in skilled trades
Initially, Dustin had reservations about entering the trades, particularly as a gay man. "Growing up, I viewed the trades as a place where only the 'rough and gruff' would thrive," he shares. "However, after being in class, talking with those in the industry, and experiencing some of the field, I was misguided to some degree. The trades have come a long way in becoming a more welcoming place for women, minorities, and those who may not be traditionally viewed as being able to 'fit in'."
Today, Dustin has found both acceptance and excellence at Shelburne Campus. "Both my instructors and fellow students have been incredible to work with. I haven't been treated any differently than my fellow classmates and industry professionals."
Meanwhile, Zach found his calling in technology. Born and raised in Yarmouth, he transitioned from sales to health insurance to emergency assistance for Canadians abroad. When layoffs caused instability in his role, Zach chose to pursue his interest in technology at NSCC through the IT Generalist program.
Growing Nova Scotia’s skilled trades workforce
The Growing Nova Scotia's Skilled Trades Workforce Bursary played a crucial role in Dustin's journey. "The bursary really helped foster an increased drive to attend this course and do well," he explains. "It let me know that the province is not only in need of people in the skilled trades but is doing what it can to support those looking to enter it."
The $5,000 award enabled Dustin to acquire essential tools and resources for his program. With both partners attending NSCC simultaneously, the financial support was instrumental in making their education possible.
For Dustin, the impact extends beyond the classroom. "I lost a little piece of me attending university for the status quo, and NSCC put it back," he reflects. "Being quite an introvert, I have gained a lot of confidence over just the last six months. This program nudged me out of my comfort zone, making me solve problems individually and in a team."
Starting their future
As they prepare to graduate together, both are focused on celebrating before launching their careers. "The first thing we are going to do is take some time to celebrate our achievements," they share. "Next for us is beginning our careers in our respective fields, while always keeping an eye out for further opportunities for professional development."
To those considering donating to student awards at NSCC, Dustin's message is clear: "You could be setting someone on the right path, or helping them get back on the right path. Quite literally, you could be changing the trajectory of someone's life for the better."
Supporting skilled trades at NSCC
Join us in growing Nova Scotia's skilled trades workforce. Learn more about ways to give to the NSCC Foundation and contact us to discuss how you can support NSCC students:
By phone (toll-free): 1-866-745-7919 | Fax: (902) 491-4828
Email:
To see options for giving online:
Recent Stories
- Student dreams of amplifying 2SLGBTQ+ voices after finding his own: Meet Theodore
- NSCC alum pays it forward to support future Medical Office Administration students
- Building success: From humble beginnings to a limitless future
- Meet the Board: Barbara Goit’s legacy of leadership and service
- Dreams deferred become dreams achieved: Meet Maybelaine Hornilla