A more Inclusive and diverse trade industry could go a long way in attracting African Canadian professionals

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

In the Skilled Trades industry, visible minorities are underrepresented. A more inclusive and diverse trade industry could go a long way in attracting more African Canadian professionals and financially empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Ontario boasts a wide array of occupations and career opportunities. Within this diverse landscape, the government has officially designated 144 occupations as skilled trades, covering industries such as mechanical, electrical, automotive and manufacturing, among others.

If yourself, your child, or a young person is interested in pursuing a career in the trades, Skills Ontario has provided valuable tips to assist them in navigating this path and acquiring the necessary skills and experiences to thrive in the industry.

For Elementary School Students

Enroll in a Skills Ontario week-long summer camp at skillsontario.com/camp. The camps offer hands-on activities in skilled trades and technology, allowing grade seven and eight students to explore diverse career paths and develop essential workplace soft skills.

Grade seven and eight classes can participate in an Elementary Career Awareness Workshop. The workshops offer hands-on experiences in Ontario’s recognized skilled trade sectors: construction, industrial, motive power and service, as well as technology.

Parents can discover skilled trade and technology career options through the Skills Ontario App. The app includes an aptitude quiz to help students match their interests with suitable skilled trade careers. It also provides links to trade organizations, information on employment and scholarship opportunities.

For High School Students:

Students in Grades 11 and 12 can explore apprenticeship options in skilled trade careers by consulting their guidance counsellor, or the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) coordinator at their school.

Students can enroll in trades courses offered at their school and plan to participate in the Skills Ontario Competition – Secondary Division.

A wealth of online resources is available for students. Skills Ontario has a YouTube channel featuring a diverse library of videos showcasing past events and discussing skilled trade careers with professionals.

Volunteering with Skills Ontario provides students with valuable experience, knowledge and the opportunity to build relationships that could potentially lead to job opportunities. To inquire about volunteer opportunities, please email: info@skillsontario.com.

For College/University Students:

College students considering a career in the skilled trades and technologies should consult with their academic advisor to explore the available programs at their institution.

Students who are currently enrolled in a trades or technology program can participate in the Skills Ontario Competition – Post-Secondary Division. The competition provides a platform to showcase skills and connect with potential employers.

Networking has proven to be instrumental in helping many post-secondary students secure job opportunities throughout their careers after graduating.

Skills Ontario offers a podcast called ‘Skills Ontario Trades & Tech Talk Podcast.’ Hosted by Dan Cardinal, the podcast covers over 140 skilled trade and technology careers, as well as topics such as post-secondary education, apprenticeships, wage and more.

It is also amazing to see community organizations collaborating to bring about change; Brothers Who Care have collaborated with the B.E.S.T (Black Entrepreneurship and Skilled Trades) Foundation Program in partnership with Ontario Tech University to implement a series of customized modules and training specifically designed to guide aspiring entrepreneurs (ages 16 -39) in the Skilled Trades industry. Interested individuals have the option of being enrolled in: automotive, culinary, hospitality, construction, and service program streams.

This curated program provides the critical support students need to transition from a learning environment into the industry. Participants will be connected with industry leaders who will provide coaching so that they are able to present themselves to future employers. They will complete the program prepared to enter the workforce with a solid foundation allowing them to seamlessly transition into their careers.

AND THE BONUS…

Upon signing up for the program, your name will be entered into a draw for FREE RAPTOR TICKETS, sponsored by Brothers Who Care!

For more information, and to enroll contact Simone Jennifer Smith at simone@brotherswhocare.com. Don’t forget to SHARE this information with a young entrepreneur that you know.