Breaking barriers so students of under-represented communities can thrive in the industry.
That's the goal behind a new $5-million investment from B.C. benefiting those looking to enter the skilled trades sector and earn experience through local programs.
The funding was unveiled today (July 6) during an announcement at Port Coquitlam's Electrical Joint Training Committee (EJTC).
It will be distributed through six provincial organizations that provide pre-apprentice and apprenticeship training for for women, Indigenous peoples and other under-served groups.
This includes:
- Aboriginal Community Career Employment Services Society (ACCESS)
- BC Centre for Women in the Trades (BCCWITT)
- Canadian Home Builders Association of BC (CHBA BC)
- Construction Foundation of BC (CFBC)
- SkillPlan
- Skills Canada BC
The money is also set to create new student bursaries, anti-racism programming and inclusive workplace training.
In Port Coquitlam, two EJTC apprentices said their career pursuits would have been much tougher if not for help to overcome financial and social challenges.
"I found ACCESS, and they've been with me every step of the way," said Wakenniosta Cooper, who began her EJTC studies in 2019. "They showed me a path that has led me to reliable work and a rewarding career, and I'm proud to have earned recognition in my field."
"I was at a point in my life where I felt lost and down, struggling with no sense of direction," added Mathew Sheena. "But then, I crossed paths with ACCESS and joined the entry-level trades training program at the EJTC. These programs turned my life around, giving me back control over my future, as well as a solid career and big dreams."
According to the B.C. government, electricians are one of several in-demand skilled trades jobs — and more positions are expected to open up alongside an estimated 83,000 in the trades sector in the next decade.
And Port Coquitlam, considered a diverse community for skilled trades, may need more of those workers, according to local MLA Mike Farnworth.
"I'm proud that this investment supports....and mitigates some of the obstacles that may be preventing people from trying a career path in this field," he said in a release.
"To get to see that happen right here in the Electrical Joint Training Committee apprenticeship program is great, and I know that these programs will continue to see great outcomes."
The province is allocating the $5 million from its $480-million three-year action plan for accessible and affordable education in preparing students for "the jobs of today and tomorrow."
