Countries are currently facing a skills gap in various trades; Pursue a career in the trades

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

Go to high school, head to college or university, graduate, and then you enter the corporate or professional space. It sounds like the natural progression of education and life, but thankfully (or not, depending on how you see things) life is not as linear as it can be presented. There are individuals who have talents and skills that do not require university or college, and often these skills can be missed, or ignored.

Countries are currently facing a skills gap in various trades. There is a shortage of skilled workers in certain fields, which can lead to unfulfilled job positions and hinder economic growth. It is why as of recently there has been a push for students to enter skilled trades.

Skilled trades contribute significantly to the economy. Construction, manufacturing, and other trade-related industries play a vital role in economic growth and development. Training students in these areas can boost a country’s economic output. Whether a student is interested in working: with their hands, designing, problem-solving, or managing projects, there are trades that cater to various interests and skills.

Skilled trades are a foundation for entrepreneurship. Many tradespeople eventually start their own businesses, becoming employers and contributing to job creation in their communities. Skilled trade jobs offer competitive salaries, especially after completing apprenticeships, or vocational training programs. This financial stability can positively impact the lives of individuals and their families.

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 your child 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 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.

Skilled trade jobs are in high demand. Unlike some other professions that might be outsourced, or replaced by automation, skilled trades require hands-on expertise that cannot be easily replicated by machines. This provides job security for individuals in these fields. There are individuals who find great satisfaction in working with their hands and seeing tangible results of their efforts. It might not be the linear life presented earlier, but it is a life that could possibly work well for your young student.