Ontario Construction News staff writer
The Ontario government has launched a new welding program at the Sprucedale Youth Detention Centre in Simcoe to help detained youth build skills for careers in the skilled trades.
In partnership with the Canadian Welding Bureau, the program aims to help young people in the justice system reintegrate into society and reduce the chances of re-offending.
“With the right support, youth in the justice system can turn their lives around and become positive members of society,” said Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services. “We are proud to support this program, which provides youth with the tools they need to succeed — for themselves and their communities.”
This program consists of a welding workshop where participants can earn a nationally recognized welding certification and practical skills that can open the door to postsecondary education, trade programs, and future employment opportunities in a high-demand field.
Under this program, participants can:
- earn trades credits toward welding certification
- improve their job readiness and be better prepared to reintegrate into the community upon release
- learn a high-demand skill that offers promising career opportunities in the skilled trades
The province has invested more than $148,000 to support the program, along with a one-time grant of $80,000 from the Canadian Welding Bureau.
“The CWB Foundation is proud to partner with the Sprucedale Youth Centre and the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services to create opportunities that will positively impact the lives of youth,” said Susan Crowley, executive director, CWB Foundation. “By investing in this new welding facility, complete with state-of-the-art equipment, we are helping young people develop valuable skills, build confidence, and open doors to new opportunities.
“Programs like this are critical in empowering youth to make positive choices and set themselves on a path to success, both during their time at the centre and beyond.”
Also, the existing Taking Responsibility and Developing Employable Skills (TRADES) program at the Sprucedale Youth Centre, which offers a range of skilled trade opportunities and helps youth obtain industry-standard certification in various trades.
