Toronto, ON — More than 360,000 skilled trades jobs are unfilled across Ontario. In an attempt to attract more youth, the province announces the creation of Level Up! skilled trades career fairs. The fair will highlight 144 skilled trades and is open to all students (First Nations schools and all publicly funded school boards) in Grades 7 to 12.
“Ontario is facing the largest labour shortage in a generation, which means when you have a job in the skilled trades, you have a job for life,” said Monte McNaughton, minister of labour, immigration, training and skills development.
Students can learn about the trades through interactive exhibitions and hands-on activities while hearing directly from tradespeople and local employers about these life-changing careers. The fairs are also free to enter, and participating colleges and organizations cover textbooks, safety equipment, and tool costs.
Training lasts up to 52 weeks and starts at different times throughout the year, while pre-apprenticeship training also includes a work placement for eight to 12 weeks.
The first career fair will start on Oct. 25 to 27 in Mississauga, at the International Centre – Hall 2. There will be additional fairs in London at the Western Fair District from Nov. 9 to 10, Sudbury at the Steelworkers Hall on Nov. 14 and 15, Ottawa at the EY Centre on Nov. 22 and 23, and in Thunder Bay at the Valhalla Inn & Conference Centre on Nov. 29. Virtual fairs are also available, and additional information will be provided in the coming weeks.