The problem is that there are not enough skilled tradespeople to fill the jobs. This is a national problem, not just a regional one. The demand for skilled tradespeople is outpacing the supply, creating a skills gap. This gap is causing delays in construction projects, rising costs, and even impacting the quality of housing. To address this issue, the Okanagan College trades program is working to increase the number of students entering the trades.
This represents a significant increase from the 2,800 skilled trade job openings in 2023. The report highlights the growing demand for skilled trades in the region, driven by factors such as population growth, infrastructure development, and a shift towards a more sustainable economy. The report also reveals that the Thompson-Okanagan region is experiencing a shortage of skilled trades workers. This shortage is attributed to several factors, including a lack of awareness about the career paths in the skilled trades, limited access to training programs, and a perception of the trades as being less prestigious than other professions.
This trend is likely to continue, according to Moffat. Moffat also noted that the rental market is experiencing a significant surge in demand. This surge is driven by a number of factors, including population growth, low interest rates, and the desire for more space. The combination of these factors has led to a significant increase in rental prices.
The program, called “Trades Exploration Program,” allows students to participate in hands-on activities, workshops, and mentorship opportunities. It’s designed to demystify the trades and showcase the diverse range of career paths available within them. The program is open to high school students in the Okanagan region, and it’s offered in partnership with local businesses and industry leaders. This collaboration ensures that the program is relevant and up-to-date with the latest industry trends and skills.
“It’s a real struggle to get time off to study.”
This is a common problem faced by many tradespeople. They are often required to work long hours and weekends, and they may not have access to affordable childcare or other support systems. **Here are some potential solutions:**
* **Flexible scheduling:** Offering employees the ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, could help them balance work and study.
You’re inside, and you’re working with your hands. It’s a good fit for women who are looking for a career that is stable, secure, and has a good earning potential.”
This statement highlights the growing interest in trade programs among women, driven by several factors. Firstly, the rapid advancement of technology in various trades is a major driver.
