A new program at Vancouver Island University will help newcomers to Canada pursue a career in the trades by providing some extra help this September.
According to a statement issued by the university, the program called Trades Pathways for Newcomers is a cohort-based bridging program that supports newcomers by ensuring they have the skills, knowledge, and supports to transition successfully into the educational program.
VIU’s carpentry chair Cameron Frenette says the program not only helps newcomers, but it also helps fill in the gaps with the growing demand in the industry.
“There is a significant demand for skilled tradespeople, and at the same time not enough people to fill the vacant positions,” Frenette says. “With Nanaimo growing in size and diversity many newcomers are already experienced.
“We are trying to bridge that gap, so they are ready to join the industry.”
According to the university, students will shadow different trades programs within the program including carpentry, electrical, baking, culinary, and others to determine what the student prefers before entering a full trades program at VIU.
VIU’s trades pathways coordinator Darren Harvey says each student will be enrolled in the program for 15 weeks, for 15 hours per week, and tuition for the program is free thanks to a $1 million provincial investment.
Applications are now being accepted for September, and for more information visit VIU’s website.
