Skilled trades programs at Fanshawe College in London, Ont.
This fund is $1.3 million
(CTS) to launch free skilled trades programs pre-apprentice programs in three different trades, carpentry, welding and automotive service technicians.
Demand
“All three of these skilled trades programs are highly in demand and can offer the potential to earn six-figure salaries with pensions and benefits,” the college wrote in a statement.
“There are currently 17,000 jobs going unfilled in London — including many in the skilled trades — and Ontario will need 100,000 more workers in the industry over the next decade.”
“These are important programs that can help employers add talent and enhance their trades team with enthusiastic new employees eager to apply their knowledge, skills and passion to grow in a rewarding career in the trades,” she said.
According to the college, the 18-week, skilled trades programs pre-apprentice programs feature “robust hands-on training covering the practical theory and skills development required to become a Level 1 certified apprentice.”
Once they reach that level, the students are required to complete a 12-week paid work placement in their related trade. The placements will occur between October 2023 and January 2024.
Monte McNaughton, minister of labour, immigration, training and skills development, said in a statement that “the skilled trades offer meaningful, well-paying careers where you can buy a home and start a family.”
“Our government is proud to invest in free pre-apprenticeship programs to give students a hand up to better jobs and bigger paycheques,” he said. “I urge any skilled trades employers in London looking to support the next generation to contact Fanshawe and see how they can participate.”
Thursday’s announcement comes in part of a province-wide investment of more than $28 million in pre-apprenticeships in the hopes of tackling Ontario’s historic labour shortage. Recently the province announced apprenticeships have increased by 24 per cent and nearly 30 per cent among women.