A Canadian construction workers' union is offering an educational training program for those who want to enter the industry.
CLAC Training is offering a construction bootcamp training program in Ontario to help those with limited or no experience in the trades gain the skills they need to start a construction career.
Bootcamp includes a free, three-week entry-level training program, with an eight-week paid job placement with a local construction employer. It's offered in Cambridge and Grimsby and will soon expand to other areas of the Ontario province.
The program was developed with the aid of a $1.5 million grant from the Ontario government’s Skill Development Fund (SDF). The Ministry of Labour, Training, and Skills Development is investing $200 million dollars through partnerships with training groups, community organizations, and unions that develop fresh ideas for training that upskill workers and connect them to lucrative careers close to home.
“Over the next decade, Ontario is projected to need 100,000 more workers in construction and the skilled trades,” said Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development. “These jobs often offer six-figure salaries with pensions and benefits and are paychecks waiting to be collected. That is why our government is supporting programs like the CLAC Training Bootcamp, which will get more young people into these life-changing careers.”
During the three weeks of in-class, online, and hands-on training, participants will learn about construction health and safety, how to safely use hand and power tools, communication skills and conflict management, construction-oriented math and more. Participants will also earn mandatory safety certificates.
During the eight-week paid work placement, participants will apply their new skills and experience on the job, while receiving support from CLAC staff, workplace mentors, and their employer.
Additional program supports include up to 26 weeks of one-on-one career-based support from CLAC staff and community partners, which includes needs-based financial assistance toward childcare, accommodation, and transportation. Participants will also receive a tool kit valued at $450 and full personal protective equipment and clothing.
Employers will also receive wage subsidies of 50 percent to support a successful 8-week paid work placement.
