Creative thinking critical to success in trades
It appears that school is back, although somewhat different than pre-pandemic. It's been a tough 18 months for everyone, but particularly for young people. In-class learning, team sports, graduations and proms were just a few things our young people missed.
The pandemic also affected educational organizations like Skills Canada and its provincial chapters, whose mission is to encourage young people to consider a career in the skilled trades and technology sectors. They, too, had to reinvent themselves this summer for the second year in a row and create virtual events for students. To give you an idea of how great the Skills Canada National Competition is — I equate it to the Olympics of the skilled trades and technology sector. But hopefully, we are starting to turn a corner and get back to a new normal.
I've spent my career educating homeowners on how to take care of their homes and how to hire the right contractors and trades, but I've also been educating the public on the importance of skilled trades. Encouraging youth and older people wanting a second career option to consider one of the many career opportunities available is essential. Why? Because I love what I do and I know so many people in the industry who love what they do and have successful careers. These careers should be considered, especially if you love working with your hands, being creative, problem solving and dread an office job. I'm not against any career. However, the skilled trades still get a bad rap, and I need to champion them.
Careers in the skilled trades and technology sector offer financial stability, flexibility in career choices and places to work, and an opportunity to improve the building industry through technological advancements, helping to create a cleaner and healthier environment for all. More than 140 skilled trades fall under construction, industrial, transportation and service. It's a vast industry essential to keeping our cities, homes, businesses and infrastructures functioning.
Another vital part of the skilled trades and technology education and training is teaching the nine skills for success (formerly essential skills).
These nine skills include numeracy, oral communication, working with others, continuous learning, reading text, writing, thinking, document use and digital skills. Together they provide a solid foundation for the tools for success in learning, life and work — no matter what career path you choose. This year, creativity and innovative thinking are being highlighted.
We use thinking to evaluate ideas and make decisions. When I'm on the job site, I am constantly problem-solving (creative thinking). I have to assess different situations and consult with my team or experts (working with others), to make informed decisions. Thinking also involves memory and experience to work efficiently and effectively. Creating a work schedule (reading text, writing, document work and digital skills), by planning and organizing tasks, like ensuring the electrical and plumbing are run after the framing but before the drywall and insulation, uses many of the essential skills. Thinking is at the core of everything we do, every day. However, I'm also continually looking for and trying new products and techniques that are created by the latest in innovations and advancements. Together, the creativity and innovation in technology and new products will help make the building industry better, safer and healthier for all.
Let's not forget that during the lockdown, many skilled trade and technology professionals ensured our quality of life by providing us with daily necessities such as keeping the lights on, the water running, food in our grocery stores and keeping us connected. What would we have done if our Wi-fi weren't working? It was a big issue, and the information technology technicians and professionals worked straight through the pandemic. We wouldn't have been able to work anywhere without technology and the support team behind it.
Even before the pandemic, the skilled trades' shortage was an issue and even more so now. Still, there is also a great opportunity for people to rethink their options — the pandemic has provided a shift in the job market, and I see a significant opportunity for the many skilled trades and technology careers. We need more people to fill the void left by our current generation of workers as they retire. Now is an excellent time to get started on your journey in to the trades.
I'm proud to say I'm part of a network of educational specialists, tradespeople, businesses, parents and students who collectively support one another and share our passion and knowledge. We need to continue to champion skilled trades and technology so every person, young and old, has the exposure, opportunity and skills for success for a career in the skilled trades.