10 SATURDAY, APRIL 9, 2022
A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WINNIPEG FREE PRESS
HEAVY CONSTRUCTION WORKERS IN DEMAND; students get entry-level training
“There are so many opportunities in heavy construction as a result of the aging workforce and increased retirements. The career possibilities are endless,” explained Carol Paul, Executive Director, MCSC. “This is long overdue.” “In the Seven Oaks School Division’s heavy construction program, students who are interested in heavy construction will get the opportunity to learn and experience all the different areas that are crucial to this industry,” says Dave Clayton, instructor for Seven Oaks School Division. “A lot of people do not realize how many areas and different specialties there are in the heavy construction sector.” Clayton adds that students successful in such programs often get a job offer at the end of the program and have the chance at a starting position of employment in the heavy construction industry. There are very few barriers to entering the heavy construction industry, which means that many can begin and work their way up. Some of the many roles may include heavy equipment operator, heavy duty mechanics, surveying as well as many other general labour roles. All of these positions differ significantly, yet they are not hard to achieve as a career. With the pressing demand for skilled workers comes the opportunity to make higher wages than other industries. It is widely known that work in the heavy construction industry can lead to higher wages because of demand, which builds for a successful long- term career that can be built upon over time. Those working in heavy construction feel like they’re part of building their community’s infrastructure, and they see the results of their work on each project. No two days are the same – each day every worker can do a different part of the construction process. Process and workflows can change, and a labourer can move quickly to more skilled assignments, including moving into operation of heavy equipment. The number and variety of jobs in heavy construction makes the industry attractive and a lucrative, long-term career. The demand for skilled workers in this industry is quite strong. Those who enter the heavy construction industry will see themselves trusted for numerous projects, will and diversify and expand their cache of skills. The Seven Oaks School Division will hold an open house for their Cooperative Vocational Education programs on Wednesday, April 13, 2022 from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm to allow students to explore what the program and the industry can offer them. For more information visit https://www.7oaks.org/Programs/ CooperativeVocationalEducation/ Pages/Heavy-Construction.aspx#/=
Jacqueline Kent is the MHCA WORKSAFELY® Education and Diversity Programs Advisor
Jacqueline Kent
A n innovative, high-school program is opening a new career avenue for graduates, giving students the basic education and practical experience to enter the heavy construction industry. This spring will see the first graduates of the Seven Oaks School Division’s Introduction to Heavy Construction program, a new Cooperative Vocational program, developed by the Seven Oaks School Division, the Manitoba Construction Sector Council (MCSC) and the Manitoba Heavy Construction Association. This 10-month program introduces youth to careers in heavy construction and includes an introduction to heavy equipment operation with simulator training, mechanical repair and welding of heavy equipment, blasting and drilling with simulators, safety training and surveying. “This class was fantastic,” says Jordan, a student in the program “The program is the best I have ever taken and it is more useful than anything I have taken in school before.” Cooperative education is very beneficial to students. They get practical career experience, professional development, a network of contacts, an increase in chances of getting hired right out of high school and the student’s enjoyment of hands-on learning is evident. Luke, another student, was impressed with the course’s delivery of skills and knowledge for an entry job in the industry. “I know I feel really prepared to get a job in the industry.” This program provides the technical training through in-class theory and work experience so students can learn by doing, with on-the-job training that focuses on safety within the industry.
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