Today, Burnaby North-Seymour MP Terry Beech announced close to $4.7 million for a SkillPlan-led project under the Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP) aimed at helping local apprentices in Burnaby in the skilled trades.
UTIP supports union-based apprenticeship training and works to reduce barriers to participation and success in Red Seal trades. The first stream, Investments in Training Equipment, helps unions across Canada improve the quality of training through investments in equipment and materials.
The second stream, Innovation in Apprenticeship, supports innovation and strengthens partnerships to address challenges that are limiting apprenticeship outcomes in Canada.
Funded under Stream 2 of the UTIP, SkillPlan will develop a one-stop online training and support system for diverse apprentices including educational resources, tutoring and mentoring, as well as tools for employers to create more inclusive workplaces. The goal is to address the various challenges and skills gaps that exist at all levels of apprenticeship training.
The project is expected to help about 5,000 apprentices, said the release.
“Skilled tradespeople are a key component of Canada’s workforce, and are vital to the strength and diversity of our local economies,” said Beech, in a news release. “This investment will help create a pool of qualified tradespeople in Burnaby, North Vancouver, and in communities across the Lower Mainland who are ready to take on in-demand jobs during the economic recovery.”
Demand for skilled tradespeople is expected to remain strong as the economy moves toward recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic, said a news release. Between 2019 and 2028, about 700,000 skilled trade workers are also expected to retire.
