With a combined total of $981,908 in funding the UCDSB TR Leger School, in partnership with Kemptville Campus, will provide skills development opportunities at multiple career path entry points for individuals interested in the power motive trades.
Adult learners who are new to the power motive trades sectors (Truck and Coach, Heavy Equipment and Agricultural Equipment) and looking to explore employment in the industry will have the opportunity to enroll in a six-week or a 12-week micro-credential program. These programs will allow adult learners to increase their knowledge and skills in preparation for long-term employment in these sectors, with the added benefit of an experiential work placement within the industry.
For adult learners with some knowledge and experience in the power motive trades that are looking for apprenticeship certification, or individuals looking for second career opportunities, a Pre-Apprenticeship Program will now be offered. This program allows individuals to “try a trade” by diving into the Level 1 Commercial Vehicle and Equipment Apprenticeship (CVEA) in-class training and completing 12 weeks of work placements across the three sectors.
For those ready to take on full apprenticeship training, TR Leger through Kemptville Campus will now be able to offer Level 1 CVEA Training for Truck and Coach Technician, Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, and Agricultural Equipment Technician to both adults and youth.
The TR Leger School started offering Level 1 CVEA training in 2021 to senior high school students and young adults through the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program. The expansion of this program offering is a direct result of its previous success.
“It’s no secret that skilled tradespeople are in high demand. These programs that we have developed with our community and industry partners will not only help address the labour shortage in the trades, but help unemployed or under-employed people get experience in the trades that could ultimately lead them to well-paying jobs,” says UCDSB Chair John McAllister. “The UCDSB is very appreciative of this investment in the youth and job seekers of Eastern Ontario.”
“Our government is working for workers by investing in high-quality training for skills trades here in Kemptville, so that young people don’t need to travel to the big city to learn and train,” said MPP Clark. “With this announcement, we are investing in our students, our rural economy, and a bright future for skilled trades in Eastern Ontario.”
These new programs will offer upskilling for those seeking entry-level positions and for those in the industry seeking just-in-time, fast-track learning modules. Students will receive one-on-one support to develop employment skills, mentorship, exam preparation, Literacy & Basic Skills (LBS) training, and training specific to experiential learning and apprenticeship training within the power motive trades. The goal is for participants to overcome barriers, successfully complete the CVEA learning program and continue their apprenticeship pathway with local industry partners and employers.
“Kemptville Campus has a long history of training youth from rural Eastern Ontario and we are pleased to have the opportunity to continue this role with the award of trades training licenses in Truck & Coach, Heavy Equipment, and Agricultural Equipment,” says Karen Cooper, Chair of the Board, Kemptville Campus Education and Community Centre. “As stewards of the former Kemptville College, we are thrilled to work with our four school board partners to provide training opportunities for youth and build the foundation of a thriving economy and rural community.”
These program opportunities will begin in May 2022 and be available ongoing until March 31, 2023. Those interested in gaining access to these free training and certification programs should contact TR Leger School 1-877-875-3437 or email trleger@ucdsb.on.ca.
For media inquiries, please contact:
April Scott-Clarke
Manager of Communications
Upper Canada District School Board
communications@ucdsb.on.ca
Liz Sutherland
Executive Director
Kemptville Campus
lsutherland@kemptvillecampus.ca