Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government is providing over $200,000 to help disadvantaged youth in Chatham-Kent train for careers in construction trades. In partnership with Family Services Kent and the Prosperity Roundtable, the project will offer 75 young people a three-week introductory training course in hand and power tool use, safety, and woodworking design.
“Our government is on a mission to ensure young people have the skills to find good jobs and build better lives for themselves and their families,” said Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development. “I am proud to support this project that gives youth in Chatham-Kent hands-on training and a pathway to financial independence and a career they can be proud of.”
Training is open to young people aged 15 to 29 who live in the region including Wallaceburg, Bothwell, Dresden, Thamesville, Blenheim, Ridgetown, and Chatham. Participants will receive hands-on training needed for work in carpentry, general contracting and construction, and soft skills such as financial literacy and business communication.
“We are honoured that the government has chosen to invest in the Prosperity Roundtable to launch our skilled trades initiative in Chatham-Kent,” said Phillip Mock, project co-ordinator, Prosperity Roundtable. “We are excited that Ontario recognizes the strength of Chatham-Kent and its youth and believes just as strongly as we do in the future of the skilled trades and empowering youth in the process.”
Students will also receive tool belts valued at $150. Once training is complete, they have the option to work as a sub-contractor handyperson for Ambition Trailer, a handyperson social enterprise in Chatham-Kent. Trainees can also connect with local partners who will work with them to map out the next steps in their career.
To apply, contact Phillip Mock at pmock@familyservicekent.com or (519) 365-4042.
According to the BuildForce Construction & Maintenance Looking Forward, Ontario, 2022-2027 report, the construction industry in Ontario will need to hire about 72,000 workers to replace retiring workers and keep pace with construction employment demands over the next six years.