Addressing the gaps in the local labour market

OYAP News Release

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The School College Work Initiative and their partners have produced a number of unique programs and incentives that help address gaps in the local labour market force, particularly in relation to the trades.

Their Trades Sampler program is a two-part, dual credit pilot project that is delivered at Canadore College’s Commerce Court Campus. This sampling of hands-on, practical skilled trades programs allows students to learn the basic practical techniques in a variety of trades including plumbing, electrical, marine and small engine, and machining, as well as additional training in auto body and welding.

“Giving students a better understanding of the trades and trade-related occupation is an excellent way to address, and ideally fill, many of the gaps that exist in the workforce throughout our region,” said School College Work Initiative Co-Ordinator Kevin Hotten.

The Trades Sampler dual credit opportunity is open to all Grade 11 and 12 students throughout the region. Students are pre-selected from each high school and spend two half days per week at Commerce Court throughout the winter semester.

Students are provided with transportation to Commerce Court by their respective high school and will also receive all relevant course materials, hand-outs and safety equipment including safety glasses, safety boots and ear plugs.

“It is our goal to provide students with a unique educational experience that gives them immediate on-the-job experience and a head start with their post-secondary training,” Hotten explained.

The Trades Sampler program has multiple benefits. In addition to the dual college and high school credits that students obtain, they also learn general trade skills and obtain accreditation in WHMIS, First Aid and CPR, and Fall Arrest.

“We are excited to be able to offer such a unique and specialized educational training opportunity
to the students of this region,” Hotten said.

The Trades Sampler dual credit pilot project will be completing its first session in June, 2008.

The next session will launch in February, 2009.


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