Ottawa, ON — Canadian apprentices, including plumbers, will be part of a pilot project seeking to improve the way on-the-job training is documented.
The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF-FCA) announced that the Government of Canada’s Future Skills Centre has supported its Best Practice Models for Industry Engagement project, which includes a pilot using the Vametric VALID-8 tool, an e-portfolio used for certification, accreditation and competency testing, conducted with 2,000 journeypersons and apprentices. Results from a similar pilot in the United Kingdom revealed apprentices experienced improved safety, greater productivity, fewer costs and more efficient program progression.
CAF-FCA’s goal is to encourage industry innovation in the way on-the-job training is documented, said CAF-FCA Executive Director, France Daviault.
“Apprentices work in sectors where employer changes, layoffs, and other disruptions are common. These vulnerabilities are magnified as the Canadian economy navigates and recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion says, “Canadian workers and employers are facing unprecedented labour market disruptions heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic. Through these new projects, we can gain new insight on how workers transition to new jobs or industries and discover employer-led solutions to address the skills gap. These findings will help Canadians now and in the future by providing the tools needed to re-establish a stable workforce and support economic recovery.”
CAF-FCA will engage plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and welders for the pilot. Each participant will receive free training and access to the Vametric VALID-8 tool allowing them to upload videos and pictures of themselves demonstrating their skills. This online apprentice resume will allow them to keep track of their skills achievements. Journeypersons will assess the videos and pictures and provide feedback to apprentices, identifying any skills gaps. Apprentices and journeypersons will share their experiences using the tool through questionnaires and interviews. A 2022 research report will detail the findings which will be shared at a future event for the Canadian apprenticeship community.
Employers, apprentices and journeypersons who are interested in participating in the pilot should email info@caf-fca.org for more information.
