By Denise Faguy
Farms.com
Ontario boasts a world of career opportunities within its 144 designated skilled trades. The agriculture offers many skilled trades from farm equipment technician to soil lab technician. Yet still with all of thse shortages, even those in the agriculture industry often shy away from guiding their children into skilled trades.
If your child is considering a career in the trades, Skills Ontario has valuable tips to help them navigate this path and acquire the necessary skills and experiences to thrive in the industry – whether in the agriculture industry or another skilled trade.
The ag industry is faced with many skilled labour shortages, let’s lead by example! Skilled trade opportunities are listed below, including shining a light on skilled trade opportunities at an early age.
For College/University Students:
• Academic Guidance: College students considering a career in the skilled trades and technologies should consult with their academic advisor to explore the available programs at their institution.
• Skills Showcase: Students currently enrolled in trades or technology programs can participate in the Skills Ontario Competition - Post-Secondary Division. This competition provides a platform to showcase skills and connect with potential employers.
• Networking: Networking has proven instrumental in helping many post-secondary students secure job opportunities throughout their careers after graduating.
• Podcast Insights: Skills Ontario offers a podcast called 'Skills Ontario Trades & Tech Talk Podcast,' covering over 140 skilled trade and technology careers, as well as topics such as post-secondary education, apprenticeships, wages, and more.
For High School Students:
• Apprenticeship Exploration: Students in Grades 11 and 12 can explore apprenticeship options in skilled trade careers. They can consult their guidance counselor or the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) coordinator at their school for guidance.
• Trades Courses: Enroll in trades courses offered at your school and plan to participate in the Skills Ontario Competition – Secondary Division.
• Online Resources: Access a treasure trove of online resources through Skills Ontario's YouTube channel, featuring a diverse library of videos showcasing past events and discussions with skilled trade professionals.
• Volunteering Opportunities: Volunteering with Skills Ontario provides students with valuable experience, knowledge, and networking opportunities that could potentially lead to job opportunities. Inquire about volunteer opportunities by emailing: info@skillsontario.com.
For Elementary School Students:
• Summer Camp Adventures: Enroll in a Skills Ontario week-long summer camp at skillsontario.com/camp. These camps offer exciting hands-on activities in skilled trades and technology, giving grade seven and eight students the chance to explore diverse career paths and develop essential workplace soft skills.
• Elementary Career Awareness Workshop: Grade seven and eight classes can participate in this workshop, offering hands-on experiences in Ontario's recognized skilled trade sectors: Construction, Industrial, Motive Power, Service, and technology.
• Discover with the Skills Ontario App: Parents can explore skilled trade and technology career options through the Skills Ontario App. It includes an aptitude quiz to help students match their interests with suitable skilled trade careers, along with links to trade organizations and information on employment and scholarship opportunities.
Be sure the youth you know can start their journey into Ontario's skilled trades with these valuable tips and resources from Skills Ontario. The world of possibilities awaits, and their path to a job they love in an industry they love starts with awareness.