Aecon has launched a new program to help inspire the next generation of skilled tradespeople.

The Aecon Ambassador Program draws on volunteers from across the company’s diverse operating sectors and functional services to host hands-on infrastructure career day events at secondary schools and to participate in industry career fairs across Canada, the U.S., and internationally.

The partnership was sparked by Aecon’s commitment to promoting the opportunities available to youth and underrepresented groups as they prepare to enter the workforce or post-secondary education programs.

“With a significant pipeline of infrastructure projects globally and an aging workforce, engaging with youth and underrepresented groups to inspire new tradespeople is a key strategy as over 200,000 skilled trades roles will need to be filled in Ontario alone over the next decade,” said Angela Green, Vice President, Human Resources, Aecon. “We’re excited to launch the Aecon Ambassador Program as an innovative way to work collaboratively with secondary schools and like-minded organizations to promote the skilled trades as a coveted career.”

The Aecon Ambassador Program has already started rolling out in Ontario, with the first three infrastructure career day events recently held at Dunbarton High School and Pine Ridge Secondary School in Pickering, and Markville Secondary School in Unionville.

Volunteers from Aecon’s Talent Acquisition and Corporate Affairs teams teamed up with operational employees to host over 200 students in partnership with JA Central Ontario – an organization with a mission to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy.

“While the essence of construction is still our dedicated trades workers, the evolution of the industry has resulted in a diverse range of functional services opportunities as well,” said Nicole Court, Vice President, Corporate Affairs, Aecon. “Through the Aecon Ambassador Program, we’re committed to educating future talent about the variety of roles available in the industry.”