GUELPH – A new program is launching in Guelph that will give students the tools to make successful transitions to careers in the skilled trades.
The Summer School Skilled Trades Co-op is available to students in the Upper Grand District School Board, in partnership with 2nd Chance Employment Counselling. School-to-work co-op transition programs are also available to Wellington Catholic students.
“We want to connect employers with students,” said Ron Aimola, Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) coordinator. “There is a high demand. We want parents to get an idea of what’s out there.”
The program consists of six weeks in class (once per week in the evening), followed by a four-week work placement.
It benefits students looking to start a career in the skilled trades, officials say.
They explore the realities and opportunities of the modern workplace, while refining their employability skills and earning two high school credits, which could help them graduate.
Participants benefit from being guided by a teacher-coach with a tech background who assists them for four weeks in the classroom and helps them make a smooth transition into the workplace.
Students have the opportunity to meet with different employers, and to choose their placement from a number of different options.
They benefit from time spent in a supportive environment with other students with a similar interest in the skilled trades, officials say.
Participants are paid for their work at most placements, said Aimola, and can often transition directly into an apprenticeship or a full-time permanent job.
The program is open to students in Grade 12, or those who up to age 21 who have left school, with an interest in a career in the skilled trades.
The main areas are manufacturing, construction, motive power and the service industry.
Registration for the program ends on March 29.
For more information, visit https://www.ugdsb.ca/continuing-education/credit-courses/summer-school/summer-school-coop/.
