Ontario Construction News staff writer
Simcoe County’s Community Builders has launched a new employment training program aimed at marginalized individuals interested in skilled trades careers.
The Trades & Diversity Training Program will run three months at a time and participants will be provided with paid training to learn everything from demolition to framing, insulation, drywall, flooring, tiling. After graduation, graduates will receive support obtaining full-time employment in the trades.
Intake is happening now. Anyone interested in learning more can visit bit.ly/ConstructionTraineeProgram to fill out an application.
“This program is so exciting because it is specifically for marginalized groups that are underrepresented in the trades,” said Shawna Bailey, director of programming at Community Builders. “For the first time ever, we will be running a program specifically for women, newcomers to Canada, and those who are Black, Indigenous, and people of colour.
“The Government of Canada has seen that these groups are completely underrepresented in the trades, and they have developed this amazing initiative to change that narrative.”
The program focuses on creating training and tools to marginalized groups that are underrepresented in the trades.
“With this significant funding grant from the federal government, I am confident this program will expand on the incredible work of Community Builders’ to date,” Bailey said.
The next cohort starts in January 2023.
“I am continuously impressed with the positive impact this not-for-profit enterprise has on our community and beyond,” said local MP Doug Shipley “Through creating affordable housing, providing trades training, and supporting individuals facing barriers to employment, Community Builders demonstrates the very best of our community.”