The Industry Training Authority (ITA) announced trades apprentices and the trades education system in B.C. are receiving more support through expanded services and regional outreach.
This September, ITA is bringing the total number of Apprenticeship Advisors to 20 across the province, with new advisors in the Prince George, Terrace/Kitimat, Abbotsford/Mission, Chilliwack, and Vancouver/Richmond regions.
These advisors will help build knowledge and awareness of the B.C. apprenticeship system and provide guidance to apprentices and employer sponsors on processes and policies relating to the apprenticeship journey.
The addition was made possible through funding from the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, which is committed to making sure more people in B.C. can access skills training and complete their apprenticeships.
“New Apprenticeship Advisors means more support for aspiring trades training students closer to home. This new investment means more British Columbians will be able to access high-paying 21st century jobs,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training.
“Investing in these new advisors is essential to making sure trades students are set up for success in our province.”
Through an understanding of their specific regions, the advisors will also build relationships with local industry members and apprenticeship sponsors and identify opportunities to remove barriers and boost success rates of apprenticeships.
ITA has also created a new region — North Vancouver Island — which is being staffed by existing advisor Shannon Hanson, who previously supported North Vancouver and the Sea-to-Sky region. The Sea-to-Sky region is now being staffed by existing advisor Chris Klar.
“We’re delighted to have this group of dedicated professionals, who have all been involved in the skilled trades and community building for many years, collectively bring a range of valuable experience, and deeply understand the needs and challenges of our varied stakeholders,” said Shelley Gray, CEO, ITA.
Training providers such as colleges will also benefit from increased Apprenticeship Advisors who will help current trades students navigate the apprenticeship system as well as assist experienced workers (challengers) in their journey to achieving credit for knowledge and skills they already possess.
