10 April 2007, Belleville, Ontario—April is Skilled Trades Month and students throughout the district are getting involved!

Skilled Trades Month was so designated by 12 eastern Ontario English and French school boards which have the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP). OYAP provides senior students with the opportunity to begin apprenticeship training through cooperative education placements and to complete requirements for a secondary school diploma at the same time.

The purpose of Skilled Trades Month is to increase awareness about the benefits of a career in the skilled trades and the benefits to employers of apprenticeship programs. It is part of the ongoing “We Jump Start! Careers Here” campaign, created to address the future skilled shortages. Throughout April, classroom presentations and skilled trades events will take place to provide information to help young people make informed decisions about their learning and employment paths.

The shortage of skilled workers is a major issue across Canada due to an aging labour force, increased demand for highly specialized skills and the challenge in attracting young people to the trades. According to the Conference Board of Canada, Canada will face a shortage of more than a million skilled workers by 2020.

The 5th Annual Employer Appreciation Breakfast, hosted by ECOTB, is on Wednesday, April 11 and provides an opportunity to thank employers who participate in the education of students through trade related, experiential learning in Co-op/OYAP placements. A special sticker “We Jump Start! Careers Here” may identify those employers who provide opportunities for young people. The general public is encouraged to support those businesses that display this sticker.

TradeWise Skilled Trades Showcase for parents and students
This event, focused on parents and secondary school students, will showcase the careers and training options in the skilled trades. TradeWise will feature demonstrations and hands-on activities in manufacturing technology, automotive services and food services. Parents and their children will see first-hand what the skilled trades are all about. The event will take place Thursday, April 26 at Loyalist College from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For information, call East Central Ontario Training Board at 613-969-0720.

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For more information, contact:
• Kerry Donnell, Communications Officer, 613-966-1170 or 1-800-267-4350, extension 2354