Since 2008, PGNAETA’s Trades Department has offered 12 Trades Access Programs (TAP) as the only Access service of its kind in Canada. The initial program was offered as a pilot with great success with twelve (12) participants starting and 11 successfully completing all components of the program. Trades Access is a highly successful initiative with an overall successful completion rate of 80%. Upon completing the TAP, the participants continue to focus on their individualized action plans which may consist of securing their adult dogwood certificate, completing college entrance pre-requisites, securing employment and / or all three (3) of the action plans at once, which has occurred with many of the previous TAP graduates. We would like to offer the program three times per year, recruiting 12 participants for each session. Through the delivery of this program we will be able to train Aboriginal clients to enter into the workforce and maintain gainful employment in the customer service field.
The labour demand in Northern BC has grown exceptionally fast in the last 5 years, due to an increase in project development, and the rising retirement rate. Furthermore, according to the Labour Force Survey, sales and service is the highest growing occupation, and the demand for skilled workers will exceed the growing labour force. This program has been developed with the industry in mind; it provides an established program for participants to enter the field of Electricians Trade with the necessary management, technical, and soft skills to succeed; hence, addressing a labour market gap by training highly competent candidates.
PGNAETA has been coordinating and executing training programs such as this for over 15 years; we have experienced and qualified team members whom are driven by success and a desire to make a difference in northern communities. Our partnership with local industry attests to our quality of service, and our involvement within the communities.
Program Modules- Each participant will complete the following four program modules:
Module I - Setting the Foundation: Industry Soft Skills / Communication / Conflict Resolution / Time Management/ Team Building / ITA - Trades Exploration / Resume Development / Interview Skills
Module II - Industry Required Safety Training: Safety Certificates include: OFA L1 + TE / Construction Safety / Safety Gear
Module III - Essential Skills Building / Life Skills: Essential Skills / TOWES / Plato Online Training / Trades Math and English Instruction / Life Skills and Personal Management Skills/College Entrance Prep.
Module IV - Industry: Job Shadowing / Mentorship / Field Visits