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This comprehensive skills training program sets up youth for sustainable careers in the technical and trades fields

Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society’s youth employment programs support those between the ages of 17 to 29 in finding meaningful and lasting employment opportunities.
construction-tech-trades-youth
Construction trades worker. Photo: Getty Images

This summer is as good a time as any to focus on furthering your career. For young adults interested in finding a new job opportunity that is both reliable and purposeful, these youth employment programs funded by the Government of Canada through the Canada-British Columbia Workforce Development Agreement are worth considering.

As part of the Skills Training for Employment initiative by the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, the Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society is offering two streams of youth trades programs to support youth job seekers in obtaining employment as technicians and tradespeople in B.C.’s booming trades sectors.

To be eligible for these training opportunities, youth participants must be:

  • aged between 17 and 29, depending on the program,

  • a Canadian Citizen, Convention Refugee, or Permanent Resident,

  • currently unemployed, and

  • currently not in full-time school. 


Fire Protection Inspector. Photo: Getty Images

CAREERS IN TECHNICAL TRADES 

The Youth Technical Employment & Business Pathways Program is intended to increase the safety labour force participation of young adults aged 17-29. 

Over the course of 20 weeks, participants will explore three technical occupations and develop and implement a Training Plan in order to successfully complete the required training and certification for one of three in-demand occupations in:

  • Fire Protection Inspection

  • Construction Safety Inspection

  • Underground Utility Location

The program’s industry-specific and career development focused training will involve: 

  • Career Exploration 

  • Employment Readiness Training 

  • Work Experience & Job Shadowing 

  • Entrepreneurial Mindset Training 

  • Occupational Skills Training 

  • Business & Employment Support


Hairdresser. Photo: Getty Images

CAREERS IN BUILDING TRADES 

The Youth Trade Builders Program is designed to expand the labour force participation of young adults aged 17-29 in the construction trades.

For 30 weeks, program participants will receive assistance in exploring two different types of trades occupations. They will ultimately choose one trades occupation and develop a Occupational Training Plan. The successful completion of the training and certification will be required to attain employment in the Building Trades sector or other ITA designated trades. These trades include hairdressing, cooking, aesthetics and many more. 

Among the expectations of the program include:

  • Essential Skills training for Building Trades 

  • Soft Skills and Short-Term Skills Training 

  • Career Exploration Training 

  • Job Search Assistance

  • Occupational Skills training from a designated institution in the choice of trade 

  • Job Placement & a Job Shadowing opportunity in the trade of choice 

  • Job Sustainment & Education/Training 

  • Follow-Up and Post Employment Support

Additionally, each participant will be considered to receive short-term training and certifications for foundation courses in: 

  • Occupational First Aid

  • Scaffold and Ladder Safety

  • Confined Spaces

  • WHMIS

  • WCB Awareness

  • Backtalk

  • Fall Protection

To further support prospective program participants, Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society will help provide financial aid through a daily allowance, child care support, transportation support, and work/clothing gear and equipment support.

Both programs have ongoing intakes. Make plans for your future today!

For more information on the youth trade programs, call 604-596-7722 ext. 150/160 or email [email protected]