Province funds pre-apprenticeship program for underprivileged youth
The Ontario government has announced $2 million in funding for a project that will provide 150 young people with training for construction jobs.
The program, which is aimed at underprivileged youth aged 18 to 29, including those experiencing homelessness and living in community housing, is being led by Brook Restoration in Ottawa, Hamilton and the Greater Toronto Area.
“We know that youth, especially those in marginalized communities, have really felt the brunt of this pandemic, with the youth unemployment rate above 20 percent in April,” said Labour, Training and Skills Development Minister Monte McNaughton. “This project is a great example of local businesses stepping up with a solution tailored to help those who need it most, so we can give the next generation the skills they need to support their families and make our communities stronger.”
The project is a 10-week paid pre-apprenticeship program. It includes two weeks of in-house classroom instruction at Brook Restoration’s office in Etobicoke and eight weeks of on-the-job training. Participants will be paid up to $3,000 during the training. Those who successfully complete the program will be offered jobs by Brook Restoration Ltd.
The course will teach general building techniques, as well as how to work with power tools, the use of different products in construction and an introduction to the overall building envelope restoration and construction.
“Brook Restoration is excited to offer this paid pre-apprenticeship program that will provide insightful training and work experience in construction,” said Brook Restoration CEO Edward Welch. “Each participant is eligible for a job offer at the end of the program. This program's high-level objective is to provide marginalized youth with access to the tools and knowledge that will equip them with the skills to pursue a sustainable career in the construction industry.”
The first round of training will begin on May 24 and last until July 16. Two additional cohorts are expected to train from September to November, and another from January to March.
The funding comes as part of the government’s $115 million Skills Development Fund through the 2021 Budget, Ontario’s Action Plan: Protecting People’s Health and Our Economy.
"Brook Restoration is a strong local business and even better community partner here in North Etobicoke,” said Etobicoke councillor Michael Ford. This paid pre-apprenticeship program will not only introduce underprivileged youth in marginalized communities to fulfilling careers, but will also help them develop the necessary skills for a bright future in the skilled trades and beyond."