‘Hands-on, practical experience’
Program brings Red Seal certification to Cape Breton’s First Nations carpenters
Some 16 new carpenters from First Nations communities across Cape Breton will soon enter workplaces in their communities with hammers in hand and Red Seal accreditation on their resumes after completion of a new specialized apprenticeship training program.
The 16 are beneficiaries of the Enhanced Direct Entry Carpentry Program, which was designed to fill a need for local carpenters in First Nations communities.
“Hands-on, practical experience is the best training for any job, and the best way for us to learn the carpentry trade,” said program participant Richard Benson of Waycobah First Nation, in a press release.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to take my carpentry apprenticeship classroom training and get the necessary work experience in my own community.”
Over the winter, program participants started with basic carpentry, math and safety training, delivered by the Nova Scotia Community College, and then began work placements.
They will now alternate between classroom-based technical and onsite training until certification is complete.
The program also includes weekly communication sessions between participants and workplace mentors during the on-the-job training phase.
The initiative is led by the Mi’kmaw Economic Benefits Office with support from the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency, the St. Francis Xavier University Extension Department’s Centre for Employment Innovation, Nova Scotia Community College, Department of Labour and Advanced Education, Mi’kmaw Employment Training Secretariat and Cape Breton First Nation communities.
The Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency and Mi’kmaw Economic Benefits Office are overseeing the program, including workplace monitoring, apprenticeship technical training and certification of apprentices.
“The program demonstrates how working collaboratively is the way forward to creating a more skilled, resilient, and productive workforce,” said Alex Paul, executive director of the Mi’kmaw Economic Benefits Office of Nova Scotia, in a press release.
“We have developed a truly innovative initiative that addresses multiple needs in our communities, made possible by leveraging partnerships and programs available within our province.”
The New Opportunities for Work program, facilitated by the Centre for Employment Innovation, supports the first two work terms and some of the required training and supports for the apprentices, as well as employer training for diverse and inclusive workplaces.
“Apprentices can stay in their communities while learning practical carpentry skills, and complete the required classroom training,” said Chief Norman Bernard, Wagmatcook First Nation, in a press release.
“They are learning their trade here at home while helping to address the need for more skilled carpenters in Mi’kmaw communities.”