TORONTO — The Ontario government has unveiled plans for a new set of job fairs for young people considering careers in the skilled trades.
Branded as Level Up!, the multi-day career fairs will highlight the 144 skilled trades in Ontario. The events will target students in Grades 7 to 12 and will offer interactive exhibitions and activities, with presentations from tradespeople and local employers, stated a release.
The first career fair kicks off Oct. 25 to 27 in Mississauga, with subsequent fairs planned in London, Sudbury, Ottawa and Thunder Bay.
“Ontario is facing the largest labour shortage in a generation, which means when you have a job in the skilled trades, you have a job for life,” said Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development Monte McNaughton in a press release. “Our government is launching these annual career fairs so more students and parents know university isn’t the only path to success. We will continue to make historic investments to attract more young people to rewarding, lucrative and purpose-driven careers in the trades, and ensure employers can find the skilled workers they need to grow their businesses and our economy.”
In addition, the government announced that Skilled Trades Ontario is introducing digital logbooks that allow apprentices to electronically track their progress, replacing paper records.
The Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON) issued a statement praising Level Up!
“We must break the stigma associated with the skilled trades and raise awareness that they are a viable career path,” said RESCON president Richard Lyall. “The career fairs are a step in the right direction.”
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