Chatham-Kent construction training program receives provincial grant
The Ontario government plans to invest more than $200,000 to support a construction-trades training program for disadvantaged youth in Chatham-Kent.
Run in partnership with Family Services Kent and the Prosperity Roundtable, the project will offer 75 young people a free, three-week introductory training course in hand and power tool use, safety and woodworking design.
“Our government is on a mission to ensure young people have the skills to find good jobs and build better lives for themselves and their families,” said Labour, Training and Skills Development Minister Monte McNaughton. “I am proud to support this project that gives youth in Chatham-Kent hands-on training and a pathway to financial independence and a career they can be proud of.”
This program is open to young people aged 15 to 29 who live in the Chatham-Kent region. Participants will receive hands-on training needed for work in carpentry, general contracting and construction, as well as soft skills such as financial literacy and business communication.
Students will also receive a paid stipend for the training course and a tool belt valued at $150. Once training is complete, participants have the option to work as a sub-contractor handyperson for Ambition Trailer, a handyperson social enterprise in Chatham-Kent. Trainees can also connect with local partners who will work with them to map out the next steps in their career.
The project is funded by Ontario’s $200-million Skills Development Fund.