Feb 7 2018

Dear Minister:

It was very nice to see you at the announcement of the new apprenticeship strategy: A STRONGER APPRENTICESHIP SYSTEM FOR ONTARIO.

I was very pleased to see that the Apprenticeship Strategy recognizes the valuable role of Skills Ontario in improving the perceived value of apprenticeship as a first-choice career path, and in educating young Ontarian’s on their career options in the skilled trades and technologies.

Through year-round programs and events, Skills Ontario enables and empowers all youth, including women and First Nations, Métis, and Inuit youth, to consider a career in the skilled trades and technologies. Increasing the participation of underrepresented groups is a key strategic initiative for Skills Ontario, and Skills Ontario Young Women’s Initiatives and First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Initiatives provide experiential learning, skill development, and mentorship opportunities to over 4,000 youth across Ontario annually.

Additionally, the Skills Ontario In-School Presentation program reaches 125,000 students across Ontario each year, and shows the value and rewards of pursuing an apprenticeship – directly addressing a key pillar of the Apprenticeship Strategy in positively changing attitudes towards the skilled trades and technologies. In fact, 70% of students say they are more likely to consider a skilled trade or technology career after receiving the Skills Ontario In-School Presentation.  

Ontario can also be proud that Canada’s largest skilled trades and technologies competition, the Skills Ontario Competition, takes place in the province, in the GTA (this year, May 7-9). The Skills Ontario Competition hosts over 2,200 competitors in grades 4 to apprenticeship-level to compete in skilled trade and technology contests, and sees over 30,000 visitors over two days.

The Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development is a true partner in delivering an apprenticeship solution that benefits our youth, our economy, and the quality of life that Ontarians enjoy, and in creating an environment that promotes and values skilled workers.

Thank you and I look forward to seeing you soon.

Ian Howcroft
CEO, Skills Ontario
ihowcroft@skillsontario.com
519-749-9899 x 229