Ontario Construction News staff writer
Level Up, a series of multi-day career fairs highlightig different skilled trades to youth is a good step, says the Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON).
“We must break the stigma associated with the skilled trades and raise awareness that they are a viable career path,” says RESCON president Richard Lyall. “The career fairs are a step in the right direction and will enable students to learn about the trades and specialized skills sets through interactive exhibitions and hands-on activities.
“Many tradespeople are retiring and to build the 1.5 million homes needed over the next decade we will have to not only replace but increase the number of people working in the construction trades.”
Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development Minister Monte McNaughton announced the job fairs this week, along with a new look for Skilled Trades Ontario (STO). Digital logbooks were also introduced, to allow apprentices to electronically track their progress.
“Today’s announcement is another positive step forward by Minister McNaughton to meaningfully address the skills shortage facing the residential construction sector,” says RESCON vice president Andrew Pariser.
“Career fairs will ensure Ontario’s youth know about in-demand careers that exist in the construction of new homes and condos across Ontario. Pairing this announcement with the STO branding release highlights the important role STO will play in improving Ontario’s skilled trades and highlighting residential construction careers.”
The first career fair kicks off Oct. 25 to 27 in Mississauga.
“We are on a mission to fill the skills gap by better connecting and ultimately inspiring Ontario students to enter these good-paying jobs that are in demand. We are expanding career fairs and enhancing pathways to apprenticeship throughout the curriculum,” education minister Stephen Lecce said in a statement.