Skilled Trades Ontario believes that attracting more young people to the trades is just one piece of solving workforce issues in Windsor-Essex.
CEO and Registrar Candice White visited St. Clair College on Wednesday as part of the agency’s STO on the Road initiative.
The event gathered around 120 employers, sponsors, organizations, and apprentices to talk about the apprenticeship system and what the region needs.
White pointed out that there are various obstacles preventing more people from entering apprenticeships.
“There are barriers to entry, and we’re taking a serious look at what those barriers are. From exposure to trades from a young age to stigma surrounding the skilled trades, to the availability for apprenticeship opportunities, whether that’s pre-apprenticeship, OEP, co-op,” White said.
She also mentioned that it’s important to support individuals once they join the apprenticeship program.
“Ensuring that there are supports available once they get into the system, whether that is through financially or otherwise, supports to pass the certification exam at the end, and understanding why they may not be being successful,” White said.
For students still deciding on a career path, White suggests exploring different options can help them discover what suits them best.
“My advice to all young people is that you do not need to be certain, but you need to be curious. Remain curious. Expose yourself to different opportunities out there. There are currently 144 skilled trades in the province of Ontario,” White said.
White emphasized that enhancing the apprenticeship system will require backing from local and provincial organizations, governments, and Skilled Trades Ontario.
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