London, Ontario — A gift of $1.3 million from the Ontario government will fund the launch of three free pre-apprentice programs at Fanshawe College, centred around filling 17,000 currently vacant skilled trades in the London area.
Fanshawe College’s Corporate Training Solutions (CTS) division plans to launch these carpentry, welding and automotive service technician courses in the effort of both closing the ever-widening skilled trades labour gap, as well as securing well-paying jobs with pensions and benefits for the local community.
The college says the free programs will consist of 18 weeks of robust hands-on training covering the practical theory and skills development required to become a Level 1 certified apprentice.
Once the students become Level 1 apprentices, they are required to complete a 12-week paid work placement in their related trade between October 2023 and January 2024.
“Pre-apprenticeship training is one of the best gateways to a career in the trades,” said CTS manager Heather Carey.
“These are important programs that can help employers add talent and enhance their trades team with enthusiastic new employees eager to apply their knowledge, skills and passion to grow in a rewarding career in the trades.”
The majority of these programs will take place in-person at Fanshawe’s London campus, with some online supplements, according to the college’s press release.
Employers interested in hosting a work placement are asked to contact project co-ordinator Julie Neufeld.
