The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) welcomes the federal government’s announcement of more than $430 million over five years for apprenticeship training, made by Secretary of State for Labour John Zerucelli.
“Investing in our workforce is investing in Canada’s ability to build,” said Rodrigue Gilbert, president of CCA. “Helping more Canadians enter the trades, build their skills and stay in construction will strengthen our workforce and support the projects communities are counting on.”
The investment is a welcome step toward expanding apprenticeship training capacity. As further programs under the government’s $8-billion Team Canada Strong commitment take shape, CCA sees an important opportunity to extend support to additional construction occupations essential to achieving Canada’s goals.
Delivering Canada’s housing, infrastructure and defence priorities requires a workforce with a broad range of skills. Alongside certified tradespeople, construction depends on civil construction managers, estimators, site supervisors, labourers and other professionals whose training may take place through college programs, specialized courses or on the job. Supporting these occupations, while helping existing workers upgrade their skills, is essential to expanding the industry’s ability to deliver projects. Together, they deliver our homes, our hospitals, our rail networks and our pipelines.
“For a small and medium-sized construction business, training support can help a crew learn to use new equipment, prepare an experienced worker to become a site supervisor, or build skills in new construction methods,” Gilbert added. “We look forward to working with government to ensure future investments support these different pathways and the full range of people it takes to build. Together, we can strengthen the workforce needed to achieve the Build Canada agenda and deliver lasting benefits for communities.”