In a realistic law enforcement simulation, St. Clair College students took on the role of investigators, searching a tractor-trailer for fake drugs and replica guns in a high-energy, hands-on training exercise.
Students in St. Clair College's Border Services program running a vehicle inspection simulation in October 2025. (Greg Bell/St. Clair College)
Students in the Border Services program took part in six back-to-back exercises, where they inspected the contents of an SUV and tractor trailer looking for contraband, to simulate what they might do as Canada Border Services Agency Officers and apply classroom learning to real-world work experience.
"Students had to work cohesively as a team to discuss problems that arose and find solutions. They had to collect and document evidence that was found, while mitigating the environmental facts as we experienced rain that day," said Prof. Greg Bell, who led the exercise.
"As adults, we tend to learn best in the tell me, show me and let me do philosophy," said Prof. Bell. "This experience has allowed our students to step outside of their comfort zone and experience the excitement of real world' opportunities in their desired careers."
Students in St. Clair College's Border Services program searching for contraband during a vehicle inspection simulation in October 2025. (Greg Bell/St. Clair College)
Students were very excited for the opportunity to transition what they've learned in class to a hands-on environment.
"Getting the chance to learn about vehicle inspection techniques was such an incredible experience," said James Krug, a student in third year of Border Services. "Seeing how officers actually go through inspections and what they look for really brought what we've been learning in class to life."
The transport truck was donated by Jason Coulvion from Load Boss Logistics and Barney Chauvin from the Ford Motor Company lent an SUV to make the exercise possible at no cost to the students.
"Experiential learning opportunities like this are so valuable because they bridge the gap between theory and practice," said Krug. "You can study procedures and protocols all day but seeing them in action helps you understand their importance and the level of professionalism required in the field."
"Experiences like this also help you picture yourself in that role, which is motivating and helps build confidence for the future," said Krug, adding this kind of hands-on learning that sets the program apart from others.
"It shows that St. Clair College is committed to preparing students not just academically, but practically giving us a real sense of what a career in this field will look like."
