Canerector Foundation Invests in Skilled Trades and Education at Assiniboine

In an effort to attract more people into skilled trades programs, the Canerector Foundation has selected Assiniboine Community College as the recipient of $400,000 to go toward financial awards for students in trades programs.

Recognizing a shortage of skilled labour in the trades, the Canerector Foundation started the Canerector Foundation Scholarship in the Skilled Trades in Ontario, and have expanded the program to institutions across Canada. The goal is to increase the recruitment, retention and employability of post-secondary students who are beginning their career in the skilled trades.

“Our economy relies on skilled trades as a contributor to our success nationally,” said Amanda Hawkins, Executive Chairman of Canerector. “There is a need for skilled trades in virtually every industry here in Canada, and we are pleased to support the education and training required to afford students with the opportunity to pursue these rewarding, enriching, in-demand career paths.”

There will be 34 awards per year to support students enrolled in the following programs at the college: Automotive Technician, Carpentry and Woodworking, Construction Electrician, Heavy Equipment Technician, Piping Trades, Power Engineering and Welding.

Data collected over the past eight years indicates that on average, 86 per cent of graduates from our trades programs have secured employment directly aligned with their chosen trade.

“These scholarships will play a pivotal role in supporting the potential of our skilled workforce, and allow many students who choose to pursue a trade to do so with a lightened financial load,” said Dean, School of Trades at Assiniboine, Kevin Poirer. “Our School of Trades is thankful to have been recognized by the Canerector Foundation and look forward to working collaboratively to attract students to one of our many trades programs here at the college.”