A new free job training program based in Brantford is giving Cambridge residents a chance to try multiple trades, laying the foundation to begin working in modern manufacturing.
Skills2Advance Try a Trade provides a seven-week introduction to welding, machining, metal fabrication, computer-aided design, electronics and robotics. When grouped together, these trades relate to mechatronics, a growing field in manufacturing that combines mechanics, electronics and computers.
“The trades offer rewarding, in-demand jobs, including in new and growing fields like mechatronics,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, in a press release. “I’m proud our government is investing in the Try a Trade program so workers can upgrade their skills and earn bigger paycheques for themselves and their families.”
Participants in the pre-apprenticeship program require no prior experience in the trades. Training will be followed by an eight-week paid placement with local employers.
Try a Trade will focus on serving youth, marginalized youth, women, Indigenous people, and recent immigrants/newcomers – all of whom are underrepresented in the trades.
Try a Trade is being offered by the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie, in partnership with Six Nations Polytechnic and the CWB Welding Foundation, with support from government.
“The training is an excellent starting point for people, giving them an introduction to skills in a half dozen trades that are in high demand,” said Danette Dalton, the planning board’s executive director. “Companies want workers who can handle multiple tasks and can work with their hands and computers.”
A total of 48 people will receive training this year, with four classes of 12 participants, at Six Nations Polytechnic’s Brantford Elgin Street campus. SNP instructors will teach each section, combining the theories of each trade with lots of hands-on learning. Participants will also learn about health and safety, workplace culture, mental health, financial literacy, networking, equity, Indigenous culture and more.
The first class that begins May 27 is already full, but applications are being accepted for future classes, starting Aug. 12, Sept. 23 and Nov. 4.
People can call 519-756-1116, ext. 223 for more information or visit the Skills2Advance Try a Trade website at: www.skills2advance.com to see if they are eligible.
Participants who complete the program, will leave with a certificate of completion, a CWB welding ticket and certifications in forklift, working at heights, and CPR/First Aid.
This Employment Ontario project is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.
