Special to Barrie Construction News
The Barrie Construction Association (BCA) promotes skilled trades as a viable and rewarding career path through a range of outreach initiatives across Simcoe County.
At the centre of these efforts is the BCA’s Skilled Trades Promotion Committee, which meets regularly to develop and implement strategies aimed at raising awareness and interest in trades careers among local youth.
One of the committee’s key programs invites students from public and Catholic high schools across the county to participate in site tours of both industrial, commercial and institutional (ICI) and civil construction projects. Students are equipped with full personal protective equipment and spend the day visiting active job sites, accompanied by industry experts who offer insights into the wide range of opportunities available in construction.
The tours also include a visit to the BCA headquarters, where students take part in interactive learning sessions and discussions with professionals from various sectors of the industry.
“These experiences help students see beyond the classroom and understand the real-world opportunities available in the skilled trades,” said BCA Executive Director Alison Smith. “It’s about making the connection between education and employment.”
BCA also hosts guidance counsellors from across Simcoe County, giving them firsthand exposure to the construction industry. Organizers say these tours have a lasting impact, as educators return to their schools better equipped to guide students interested in pursuing trades careers.
Also, the Jordan Abercrombie Memorial Bursary is awarded annually to deserving individuals pursuing careers in construction. The bursary honours the legacy of a young tradesperson and aims to help remove financial barriers to training and certification.
This spring, the BCA partnered with InvestBarrie to host a job fair at the Allandale Recreation Centre. The event attracted more than 400 members of the public and featured local employers, training providers and apprenticeships in the construction and skilled trades sectors.
For more information on the BCA’s skilled trades initiatives, visit www.barrieca.com