Today, the government celebrated progress and success on the one-year anniversary of B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint, government’s plan to help British Columbians find their fit in the province’s diverse, strong and growing economy.

As part of the celebration, Premier Christy Clark announced $727,500 for a unique program that opens the doors to a career in the trades for young people. Funding is for 326 new seats in 12 public post-secondary institutions for the Trades Discovery program. This program offers students hands-on experience in a range of trades over 10 to 12 weeks. Following the program, students who want to continue training toward a trade can enrol in a foundation program or pursue an apprenticeship directly with an employer.

The Blueprint was launched a year ago to re-engineer education and training systems - from kindergarten through to post-secondary training and beyond. With one million job openings projected by 2022, driven by retirements and economic growth, the province will need to tap into the full potential of its workforce.

Students, educators, workers and employers gathered in front of the B.C. Parliament Buildings today to recognize how the Blueprint is having a positive impact on their lives and mark the plan’s first year achievements.

In the first year, government has delivered on its promise to provide a head start to hands-on learning with nearly 50,000 British Columbians in 31 communities participating in Find Your Fit, a youth-focused interactive event showcasing in-demand careers.

Data is being used to drive decision-making to better match education and training with workforce needs - and that has happened with 4,888 newly targeted post-secondary student spaces in 2014-15.

Government is building stronger partnership with industry and labour to deliver training and apprenticeships - just one example being the new online Apprentice Job Match tool, which connects apprentices with companies.

(flickr.com)

Recent Blueprint-related announcements include:

• $30 million over three years for skills training in Aboriginal Communities and First Nations: http://ow.ly/MbRDI
• Code-related training at five public post-secondary institutions supported with $250,000 investment. http://ow.ly/Mf21K
• $6.1 million for 1,429 additional critical trades training seats in 14 public post-secondary institutions, bringing the total Blueprint investment in trades training seats to over $13 million for nearly 3,000 seats: http://ow.ly/MbRLY
• $24.5 million over five years to help single parents on income assistance secure an in-demand job: http://ow.ly/MbRYi

Blueprint progress highlights include:

• A second ACE IT intake was added, allowing more options for high school students to explore a variety of trades while they earn credit towards graduation.
• Expanded financial aid options are available, including the new BC Completion Grant for Graduates and BC Access Grant for Labour Market Priorities, and the expanded B.C. Loan Forgiveness Program.
• More than 545 Aboriginal people are receiving skills training through $7.4 million in joint federal and provincial funding.
• Invested $4.3 million for at-risk youth aged 15-30 through Bladerunners program.
• Construction under way on Okanagan College’s $33-million trades renewal and expansion.
• Construction under way on Camosun College’s $30-million Trades Education and Innovation Complex.
• Construction underway on the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology’s $1.8-million trades training facility.
• Opened the $16.5-million Motive Power Centre of Excellence.
• $4.4 million in 2014-15 to 14 public institutions to purchase new trades training equipment.
• Formed the Labour Market Priorities board so government can focus skills training funding decisions on labour market demand.
• An expanded WorkBC website and web tools to focus on youth, including Apprentice Job Match, Blueprint Builder and Career Compass.
• Refocused the Industry Training Authority and hired 15 apprenticeship advisors throughout the province.

The full One Year Update detailing the wide range of actions government has taken to maximize the potential of B.C.’s workforce is available here: https://www.workbc.ca/blueprintaction

Quotes:

Christy Clark, Premier of British Columbia -

“B.C.'s future will be built by men and women with rewarding careers in a diverse, growing economy. That's why we launched the Skills for Jobs Blueprint - to connect British Columbians with the skills for in-demand careers, and create more opportunities across the province.”

Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour -

“Only one year in, and already B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint is making a difference in the lives of B.C. students, workers and employers. We’ve refocused the Industry Training Authority, which now has 15 Apprenticeship Advisors throughout the province helping people complete their training and connect with employers. New on-line tools available on WorkBC.ca like Apprentice Job Match and My Blueprint Builder are making it easier for all British Columbians to connect with skills training and apprenticeship opportunities in their communities.”

Peter Fassbender, Minister of Education -

“Students across the province are excited about the new opportunities now available to them through B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint. They are finding their fit earlier and discovering new possibilities for future success.”

Michelle Stilwell, Minister of Social Development and Social Innovation -

“Across government we are working to make sure everyone has an opportunity to benefit from B.C.’s strong and growing economy. Through the Single Parent Employment Initiative and WorkBC Centres across the province, we are removing barriers to employment and helping people reach economic independence.” 

Andrew Wilkinson, Minister of Advanced Education -

“Giving youth and young adults hands-on experience allows them to find a career fit in the trades. Our investment of $727,500 this year in 326 Trades Discovery seats will help open the door for many students to a world of possibilities in a range of trades.”

John Rustad, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation -

“Aboriginal people are essential to B.C.’s workforce yet First Nations communities can experience extra barriers when trying to access skills training and employment. That’s why we’re investing up to $30 million in new funding over the next three years to support First Nations partnering in the province’s LNG opportunity. This innovative approach will build opportunities together with First Nations to determine what projects can best meet their needs while meeting our future labour demands.

Josh Jardine - ACE IT KPU/Squamish pipefitting program, North Vancouver -

“When I first heard of this pipefitting course I jumped right in. I’d like to get my journeyman ticket and start a business related to the pipefitting/steam fitting industry, whether servicing pipelines, getting contracts with industry or government…that’s my goal. It takes a team. This Blueprint partnership involving Squamish First Nation, the Industry Training Authority, Kwantlen Polytechnic University and Mountainside Secondary School is making it possible.”

Leigh Wall - Vancouver Community College, heavy duty commercial transport mechanic graduate -

“About two years ago, I decided I needed a change. I enrolled in Vancouver Community College’s heavy duty/commercial transport foundation program. Now I am working as a truck and transport mechanic and I love it. I encourage students to take advantage of B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint training opportunities and see how rewarding a trades career can be.”

Maddie Batters - Lambrick Secondary school student, electrical program -

“In six weeks I graduate from high school and I couldn’t be happier. I’m proud to have completed TASK at Lambrick Park Secondary School with a focus on becoming an electrician. I can’t wait to continue improving my skills and use them on a worksite. B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint really opened up a lot of options. When it comes to career planning, it’s all about choices. Having more choices makes it easier to follow your dreams.”

Learn More:

For more information on the One-Year Blueprint Progress Update visit: https://www.workbc.ca/blueprintaction

For more information on B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint visit: https://www.workbc.ca/skills

To find out more about the BC Jobs Plan, visit: http://engage.gov.bc.ca/bcjobsplan/

British Columbia’s 2022 Labour Market Outlook: http://ow.ly/McutM

Two backgrounders follow.

Media Contacts:

Sam Oliphant
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
250 952-7252

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour
250 387-2799

Stacey McGaghey Jones
Ministry of Advanced Education
250 952-6400

(flickr.com)

BACKGROUNDER 1

Funding for Trades Discovery programs

Today government announced $727,500 for Trades Discovery programs at 12 public post-secondary institutions.

In many communities, public institutions and school districts deliver the programs in partnership. For example, Lambrick Park Secondary in Victoria works with the Trades Awareness, Skills and Knowledge (TASK) program offered by Camosun College to introduce metal and wood trades for the entire school district. All participating South Island District secondary schools can enrol students in the TASK program in partnership with Camosun College and earn high school and college credits at the same time.

The following institutions will receive funding for Trades Discovery programs:

Camosun College
Seats: 68
Funding: $153,000

College of New Caledonia
Seats: 32
Funding: $72,000

College of the Rockies
Seats: 32
Funding: $72,000

Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Seats: 16
Funding: $36,000

Nicola Valley Institute of Technology
Seats: 16
Funding: $36,000

North Island College
Seats: 12
Funding: $27,000

Northwest Community College
Seats: 40
Funding: $90,000

Okanagan College
Seats: 32
Funding: $72,000

Selkirk College
Seats: 16
Funding: $36,000

Thompson Rivers University
Seats: 30
Funding: $67,500

University of the Fraser Valley
Seats: 16
Funding: $30,000

Vancouver Island University
Seats: 16
Funding: $36,000

Kwantlen Polytechnic University, North Island College, Selkirk College and the University of the Fraser Valley are offering Trades Discovery programs for the first time.

In June 2013, government provided approximately $182,000 to Camosun College, Vancouver Island University, and Thompson Rivers University for Trades Discovery programs.

Media Contacts:

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training
and Responsible for Labour
250 387-2799

Stacey McGaghey Jones
Ministry of Advanced Education
250 952-6400

BACKGROUNDER 2

B.C.'s Skills for Jobs Blueprint - personal stories

Josh Jardine - Mountainside Secondary school student, ACE-IT KPU/Squamish pipefitting program, North Vancouver:
Josh is a high-school student excited to be in the inaugural ACE-IT Piping Foundation program made possible through a Blueprint partnership involving the Squamish First Nation, the Industry Training Authority, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, North Vancouver school district 44 and the private sector. “I’m really interested in this course; I’d like to get my journeyman ticket and start a business related to the pipefitting/steam fitting industry, whether servicing pipelines, getting contracts with industry or government…that’s my goal.” http://ow.ly/M1MtR

Leigh Wall - Vancouver Community College heavy-duty commercial transport mechanic program graduate:
Leigh is a graduate of Vancouver Community College’s heavy-duty commercial transport mechanic program. She is currently enrolled in the college as a second year truck and transport mechanic, and is working at First Truck Centre Vancouver.

Curtis Shard - ACE IT student, Squamish Secondary school, Squamish:
Looking to find career direction, high school student Curtis found out about the ACE IT program through Vicki Schenk, Squamish Secondary School Woodwork teacher. “I found I really enjoyed carpentry…..I was able to secure an apprenticeship before I had even finished my last day of school.” http://ow.ly/M1vXH

Carson Laudner - Belmont Secondary, Vancouver Island:
Carson sees himself one day as a certified journeyman electrician and being a foreman on a jobsite.  However, Carson’s path wasn’t always this clear.  It wasn’t until Carson gained hands-on skills experience during an electrical apprenticeship with Glenco Electric that he realized his passion was in skilled trades. Thanks to the head-start and hands on learning, Carson is now a leader on his jobsite. http://ow.ly/M1R8Y

Jasper Edge - Qualicum Secondary school, Vancouver Island:
Jasper is an exceptional tradesman.  Starting with basic woodworking and metal working courses while in high school, Jasper was able to hone his skills to the point where he won the Provincial Skills Regional competition in grade 10, came third in grade 11 and in grade 12 he won the regionals again.  Jasper further improved his skills during the work experience program where he found himself building a 4,500 sq-ft custom home, from start to finish.  Jasper encourages his fellow students to develop a passion for what they do. http://ow.ly/M1wkN

Dustin Dugstad - Claremont Secondary school, Vancouver Island:
As he works towards his Red Seal certificate, Dustin is an all-star on the worksite with Campbell Construction.  After three years of hard work, he’s also near the top of his technical skills training classes.  However, success wasn’t always in the cards.  Four years ago, Dustin was struggling with the traditional academic curriculum and had little interest in school.  Things changed for the better when he applied for the Saanich regional carpentry program.  Dustin loves his work with Campbell Construction and he encourages other students to consider working in the trades. http://ow.ly/M1B3X

Shannon - Electrical Apprentice, Kamloops:
Shannon was previously working in a vet clinic—and needed a change. She saw the WorkBC commercial about a woman in her 30s and how she became involved in the trades. Shannon is a first year apprentice. She loves her job, learning new things, and using different tools. On the job paid training was very helpful. Thanks to the Women in Trades Training program, Shannon was able to obtain boots, jacket, and tools to help her get started on the right foot. “I wish I had done it sooner.” http://ow.ly/M1pSH

George Dougherty Jr. - Fourth-year apprentice plumber / gasfitter, Quesnel:
After bouncing around several sales jobs over the years, George received funding from his local WorkBC Centre so he could go back to school for trades training. He’s still loving it. http://ow.ly/Mct43

Kelsey and Marilou - Carpentry apprentices, Lower Mainland:
“I love coming to work every day…I used to be bored at work but this really challenges me.” Marilou finished university and found the Women in Trades Training program online. The program taught the two friends how the skilled trades are structured. Kelsey notes the stereotype that women don’t have the physical strength—and says it’s all about physics. “Anyone can do it, and it’s fun…When I see a finished product I helped make, I feel really proud of myself.” http://ow.ly/M1pLy

Poi - Steel Stud Framer Apprentice, Lower Mainland:
Poi is working towards certification as a steel stud framer, specializing in wall and ceiling installation. “I was looking into carpentry and someone mentioned steel stud framing which I’d never heard of. Women in Trades Training helped me find a job and got me all the tools I needed so I was ready to start. I’m enjoying it, I’m going to move forward and get my Red Seal to become a journeyperson.” http://ow.ly/M1pGI

Lauren Moore - Carpentry Apprentice, Smithers:
Lauren always took woodworking classes in school. When she first started it was physically challenging—but Lauren stuck with it and gained a lot of strength.  Her employer says “the younger generation is taking over. I feel way safer working with women… they think things through. … Sky’s the limit for women in trades.” Lauren says, “you don’t have to change yourself to become involved in the trades. http://ow.ly/M1qfB

Kyana Shauer - Carpentry Apprentice, Terrace:
“I got started in construction with my dad when I was 6 months old…As I got older I would get a board, by the end of the day it was full of nails,” says Kyana. Her employer says, “she’s herself. Gender is no big deal to us. Kyana is probably stronger than some of the guys on the crew.” http://ow.ly/M1qnH

Trevor Fraser - Aboriginal Training for Employment Program, Campbell River:
Trevor completed the Aquaculture Technician Diploma program offered in his community by Excel Career College in 2013 and is now is employed. The college worked in partnership with the Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation, Grieg Seafood and the Aboriginal Training for Employment program. Trevor received the 2014 student of the year award from the BC Career Colleges Association. http://ow.ly/MfBoT

Danica Lum - Kwantlen Polytechnic University student graduate, Millwright Foundation Program:
Ever since she was a young girl, Danica knew trades would be a big part of her life. Introduced to the ACE IT program through her hearing teacher, Danica is now a happy graduate from Kwantlen Polytechnic University Millwright Foundation Program. “Now I just have to grab it and run with it.” http://ow.ly/M1wyX

Tina Paterson - Industry Forestry Training Program, Kootenay Region:
Ross Spur resident Tina was looking for a new direction in life when she heard about the Safety in Resource Industry Forestry Training Program at Selkirk College. The single mom of two jumped at the chance to gain skills to qualify for a good job. “I’m excited because I think it’s going to open a lot of doors for me.” http://ow.ly/M1Sms

Media Contacts:

Sam Oliphant
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
250 952-7252

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour
250 387-2799

Stacey McGaghey Jones
Ministry of Advanced Education
250 952-6400