The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Construction Council of Ontario (IBEW CCO) and the Electrical Contractors Association of Ontario (ECAO) have released a research paper they believe can assist the provincial government in its quest to introduce apprenticeship reforms.
“We look forward to working with the government to help them develop a model that will work,” says James Barry, Executive Chairman of the IBEW CCO.
The report – A Legacy for the Future: An Apprenticeship System that Works – was developed in response to the Ontario government’s recent announcement of plans to close the Ontario College of Trades and make changes to the provincial apprenticeship system.
“As leaders in training with the highest apprentice completion rates in the electrical industry, we believe we have the experience and knowledge to help the government with its reforms,” added Barry.
The report – prepared by an independent expert in the industry – looks at apprenticeship systems across the country and what has worked and what has not been successful.
Specifically, it is proposed that the new system be constructed on three pillars: (1) a Red Seal commitment; (2) ESA enforcement; and (3) industry leadership.
“I would encourage our members to read this report and hope business managers arrange to share it with MPPs in their region as well as take the time to offer tours of our training facilities,” he said.
“By working with government in a constructive way, we can help ensure we have a skilled workforce for the future that has been trained safely and to the high standards the people of Ontario deserve,” added Barry.
The report also offers suggestions on how to better promote compliance within the industry.