Ontario’s Labour minister wants young people to know that university doesn’t have to be their post-secondary goal. David Piccini said in December that the skilled trades can offer students the chance at a “life-saving career.”
Ontario announced in December, 2023, it is spending more than $62.9 million on two of the province’s “foundational skilled trades programs,” saying the money will ensure more than 18,000 students have the chance to explore the trades.
“We need more young people to know university isn’t the only path to success in life,” said Piccini in a news release. “Our government will continue to invest in expanding opportunities for students and young people so everyone in Ontario has a fair shot at a life-changing career.”
Part of the money the province announced will be used to expand the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), a high school program for students who have completed Grade 10 that gives them the chance to explore trades through co-operative education programs.
The $21.1 million for OYAP expands the program to in-take more students. A portion of the money will also be used to send 72 OYAP recruiters into more than 800 secondary schools to compete directly with colleges and universities.
The bulk of the funding wil be used to launch around 100 pre-apprenticeship training projects around the province “to help young people get first-hand experience working in trades that can pay six figures such as welding, electrical and arboriculture.”
“Pre-apprenticeship training is free for participants while costs for textbooks, safety equipment and tools are all covered,” the province said. “Courses can last up to 52 weeks and include an 8–12-week paid work placement with a local employer.”
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