The Industry Training Authority (ITA) and WorkBC have launched a new innovative online tool to connect apprentices with employers through Victoria and the West Shore.
Apprentice Job Match was launched locally Friday (Nov. 7) at Camosun College, where Foundation Program students, local employers and industry stakeholders joined ITA to learn more about how the tool works and how it can assist them in their job or apprenticeship search.
“Helping apprentices find employer sponsors is critical to improving apprenticeship completion rates and ensuring industry has the skilled labour it needs to take advantage of our growing economy,” said Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour.
“Employers are an essential component of any apprenticeship, as 80 per cent of an apprentice’s journey is spent in practical training under the guidance of an employer,” said Gary Herman, ITA CEO. “It can be challenging for young apprentices, especially for those just starting out, to find employment, so the online Apprentice Job Match tool is an invaluable resource for them, as well as employer sponsors looking to hire apprentices.”
ITA is hosting a webinar tomorrow (Nov. 12) from noon to 1 p.m. to take apprentices and employers through the process. To sign up, visit itabc.ca/events/apprentice-job-match-webinar.
acowan@goldstreamgazette.com