As Canada prepares to host the 2010 XX1 Olympic Winter games in Vancouver, a growing demand for skilled labour in the construction of major infrastructure projects is evident. In response, the Vancouver Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership Training Society (VanASEP), is providing training opportunities for Aboriginal people. VanASEP is a part of the Aboriginal labour market, and is one example of how industry can meet its requirement for skills by tapping into the valuable resources that Aboriginal people represent.
The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Partnership (ASEP) initiative is administered by Human Resources and Social Development Canada, and complements Canada's Aboriginal Human Resources Development Strategy.
VanASEP's success relies on strong partnerships with the British Columbia construction industry, Aboriginal communities in the Greater Vancouver Area and major private sector employers. By working together, these partners are providing a valuable resource for the 2010 Olympics, at the same time giving Aboriginal people the opportunity to explore careers in the construction industry.
Melvin Patrick is just one example of the VanASEP's success. A member of the N Quat qua First Nation, Melvin participated in the Construction Orientation and Retention for Employment (CORE) program developed jointly by the construction sector and the Aboriginal community. Melvin is now working and training for his desired career as a journeyman carpenter.
"I heard there were opportunities in construction," said Melvin. "I wasn't sure if it was the right choice for me, but after taking the CORE Training Program, I got a better understanding of the industry and what I needed to get my foot in the door. Now, I am in my first year carpentry apprenticeship and am getting paid while I learn."
VanASEP hopes to continue to build on its success by creating at least 550 employment opportunities for Aboriginal people beyond 2010.
For more information on VanASEP:
Ken Donnelly, Director (Partnerships)
Aboriginal Affairs Directorate, HRSDC
(819) 956-8860
Linden Pinay, Executive Director
VanASEP Training Society
(604) 294-5448
www.vanasep.ca
Photo:
Left to Right: Randy Callaghan, PCL Constructors Westcoast Inc., Melvin Patrick, Jim McMurray, Site Superintendant.