Every member of a new and free construction skills class offered through PELC secured work as soon as they graduated.

The pilot project, funded by Ontario’s Rural Economic Development program, and organized by Prince Edward Learning Centre and Thrive PEC, has graduated two separate cohorts of adult students from a new two-week construction skills course. The value of the course is approximately $2,500.

Members of the first class started training at Base31 back in February, developing skills including framing, tiling, and saw use as well as safety certifications including working at heights. The course was repeated last week at the former Pinecrest Elementary school.

PELC’s Christine Durant reports every participant of the first class secured employment. Graduates of the second group are seeking employment with area firms this week.

“It’s been inspiring to see the program get off the ground, working with people with a passion for building as well as local contractors who are hiring the new recruits,” she said. 

PELC has wanted to support the growing construction field for years. Ms. Durant is eager to see the program take full flight with the building boom expected in Prince Edward County. 

For its part, Thrive PEC conducted numerous community conversations to create a set of community pillars, or key supports. This program supports quality local jobs and training.

Easier Entry

For the course graduates, the program is about opportunity. Participants build a career, expand their skills base, and explore potential apprenticeship pathways. While there is a mix of ages in the program, many participants are youth. Lack of work experience can hinder entry into the construction trade.

Chris Blackburn of The Safety Guys was one of the lead instructors at Pinecrest. On the day the Gazette attended, students were getting hands-on safety training and tool handling practice, measuring and hanging drywall and framing an exterior structure.

“The first week is a lot of classroom teaching on Ontario regulations, the second week is more practical. If you are operating a chop saw, what are you wearing? If you are using the sander, what are you wearing?” Mr. Blackburn explained. He added it has been very encouraging to see the fresh recruits roll straight into into new jobs.