Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer
The Government of Nova Scotia has announced a $10-million investment to support skilled trades training through three key initiatives:
- creating the Cape Breton Trades Exhibition Centre – an industry-led hands-on exploration and learning facility for youth, community groups and apprentices
- expanding enhanced direct-entry apprenticeship programs – faster, more accessible pathways into the skilled trades
- supporting career transitions – programs for underemployed people, veterans and new Canadians to enhance and gain skills to be ready for careers in the skilled trades
“Nova Scotia needs more skilled trades professionals to support our growing economy and to build the homes, schools and hospitals we need,” said Nolan Young, minister of labour, skills and immigration. “By working with industry leaders, this investment will encourage more people to explore the skilled trades, train more people and connect them with good careers in construction.”
An industry-led steering committee will manage the project details to encourage collaboration. The committee includes representatives from key industry organizations, unions and employer groups.
“Given the interconnectedness and interdependencies of so many parts of our economy, this is the only way to achieve success,” said Duncan Williams, president and CEO, Construction Association of Nova Scotia. “Today, we continue that work as a team for the benefits of all those who choose to call Nova Scotia home. I am proud and excited to be part of this historic moment on behalf of our industry.”
The Cape Breton Trades Exhibition Centre will be the second of its kind in the province and there are two mobile training centres and a mobile construction experience. The centre will feature interactive booths, training classrooms and a testing facility to enhance trades education for thousands of people.
“Building off the successes we’ve seen in youth engagement, career awareness and training, this investment enhances industry’s capacity to do more provincewide in the development of trades professionals for the growth of the sector. This commitment by industry and government is changing how we see construction and trades in Nova Scotia,” Trent Soholt, executive director, Nova Scotia Construction Sector Council, said in a statement.
