Helping build and expand a skilled workforce to meet this province's labour demand is a key priority for the B.C. government, MLA Shirley Bond says.
Bond, who serves as the chair of the Cabinet Committee on Strong Economy, was asked how the province plans to help equip young people, including those who will check out next week's Delta Trades and Technical Fair, to fulfill that demand for skilled workers.
"With all the possibilities of a diverse, strong and growing B.C. economy ahead of us, there has never been a better time to consider a career in the skilled trades in British Columbia. B.C is expecting nearly one million job openings over the next decade and we know that our province has reached a tipping point with fewer young people entering the workforce than older people leaving it," said Bond. "Helping to build and expand a skilled workforce to meet our labour demand is a key commitment under B.C.'s Skills for Jobs Blueprint. Through the blueprint, we are helping British Columbians get the skills they need to be first in line for job openings."
She said almost 80 per cent of all job openings will require post-secondary education and training, which is why the government is reengineering its education and training programs towards a datadriven system that focuses investment on jobs that are in-demand.
"One of the best ways to prepare young adults for work is to provide them with the skills training required for their chosen career path," Bond said. "We want to help students succeed, which is why the province offers significant funding supports for those completing an apprenticeship in a skilled trade." She said an apprenticeship remains one of the best ways for young workers to gain the necessary skills for in-demand jobs.
"Our government recognizes that B.C's youth are a key demographic that will help to fill the growing demand for skilled labour. I encourage everyone to attend the Delta Trades and Technical Career Fair to learn more about the options and opportunities available."
Bond said the Find Your Fit interactive exhibit will be there to provide youth a chance to explore the necessary skills needed to work in a range of indemand jobs the province will need in the future.
The annual Delta Trades and Technical Fair takes place Thursday, April 28 at the Sungod Recreation Centre from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
