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Peel Community Benefits Network: Second Annual Forum

Promoting supportive, sustainable, and inclusive employment in the Skilled Trades through collaboration and collective action

Working towards diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces in construction through collaboration and collective action

Trades in Action

Overcoming barriers to employment in the Skilled Trades

PCBN Second Annual Forum

The Peel Community Benefits Network (PCBN) Second Annual Forum brought together a dynamic and diverse group of stakeholders, deeply committed to fostering supportive, sustainable, and inclusive employment within the skilled trades sector in the Peel Region. This transformative event served as a vibrant platform, facilitating the exchange of knowledge, the cultivation of innovative ideas, and the forging of collaborative partnerships among industry leaders.

The forum featured a series of in-person plenary sessions, keynote speeches, and an open panel discussion, providing attendees with valuable insights and opportunities to contribute to the conversation. Participants had the privilege of hearing from esteemed speakers who shared their expertise and experiences in the field.

Participants were encouraged to harness the momentum generated throughout the event, translating it into sustained collaborative efforts. The forum not only facilitated the establishment of enduring partnerships but also served as a catalyst for the dissemination of best practices and the identification of opportunities for growth and inclusivity within the skilled trades sector. The Forum aimed to create an inclusive and open space for learning, collaboration, and dialogue among stakeholders committed to creating a stronger and more inclusive skilled trades sector in the Peel Region.

The following sections of this report highlight the main Calls to Action that emerged from the discussions and insights shared during the Forum. These Calls to Action serve as a roadmap for driving positive change and advancing the goals of promoting supportive, sustainable, and inclusive employment in the skilled trades sector within the Region of Peel. By collectively embracing these actions, stakeholders can play an active role in shaping the future of Peel and ensuring equitable opportunities for all individuals interested in pursuing careers in the skilled trades.

Calls To Action

Working towards diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces in construction through collaboration and collective action

Supporting women in the trades 

Organizations have the power to cultivate an inclusive environment where women in the trades are given the support and resources needed to thrive. This means creating a workplace culture that embraces diversity and equity, dismantles barriers, and promotes equal access to opportunities. It requires a concerted effort from leadership, employees, the overall sector and other stakeholders to challenge existing norms and actively work towards achieving gender equality.

Build Supportive Frameworks

Create an environment that encourages the participation of women in the trades by developing policies, procedures, and practices that address barriers and promote gender equality.

Take action by implementing mentoring programs, providing networking opportunities, offering flexible work arrangements, and ensuring accessible facilities.

Establish Workplace-Specific Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Strategies and Policies

Tailor an effective diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategy to your specific workplace and embed it within your organization's culture.

Address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by women in the trades. Implement recruitment, retention, career development, and advancement initiatives that promote gender diversity. Establish clear policies and processes that support a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Develop an overarching DEI policy that articulates your organization's commitment. Create a code of conduct that outlines expectations for behavior.

Implement recruitment policies that promote diversity, offer inclusive benefits packages, and provide provisions for equitable vacation days and work-life balance.

Embrace a Long-Term Approach

Recognize that achieving meaningful diversity and inclusion is a long-term journey that requires intentional steps.

Commit to ongoing efforts and continuously evaluate and improve your practices. Engage all stakeholders, including employees, leaders, and trade unions, to actively participate in the process.

Lead with Purpose

Consistently communicate and champion the importance of gender diversity and equality at all levels of the organization.

Lead by example, demonstrate inclusive behaviors, and hold yourself accountable for creating an environment where women in the trades can thrive.

Supporting equity-deserving groups through employment programs 

Supporting equity-deserving groups through employment programs involves implementing a range of strategies to create inclusive and equitable opportunities in the construction sector.

This includes providing financial support to address the unique challenges faced by individuals, offering intentional and comprehensive training programs that combine theory and hands-on experience, establishing connections and collaborations with universities and advocacy groups to promote social procurement agreements and expand employment opportunities, emphasizing long-term career progression and advancement beyond initial job placement, driving social impact by securing full-time jobs and contributing to economic empowerment, prioritizing diversity and inclusion by ensuring equal opportunities and support for equity-deserving groups in the trades, and fostering networking and partnerships to create a supportive ecosystem that enhances the collective impact of efforts in supporting equity-deserving groups.

Implement Intentional Training and Work Experiences

Offer comprehensive training programs that combine theoretical learning with practical hands-on experience in the construction industry.

Provide participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed.

Empower individuals by building their confidence through practical application and ensure they are equipped for the demands of the industry.

Foster Connection and Collaboration

Establish connections and partnerships with universities, advocacy groups, and other organizations to promote social procurement and community benefits agreements.

Expand employment opportunities for trained individuals by recommending them to other employers.

Leverage the expertise and networks of various stakeholders in the construction sector to support equitable access to employment.

Support Career Progression and Advancement

Emphasize long-term career development and advancement within the construction industry.

Provide ongoing support, mentorship, and opportunities for further skills development.

Empower individuals to progress in their careers and take advantage of the upward trajectory offered by the construction sector.

Demonstrate Social Impact and Empowerment

Emphasize long-term career development and advancement within the construction industry.

Provide ongoing support, mentorship, and opportunities for further skills development.

Empower individuals to progress in their careers and take advantage of the upward trajectory offered by the construction sector.

Champion Diversity and Inclusion

Commit to creating diverse and inclusive workplaces within the construction industry.

Promote equal opportunities and support for women and equity-deserving groups in the trades.

Actively challenge biases, break down barriers, and foster an environment where all individuals feel valued, respected, and included.

Foster Networking and Partnerships

Foster collaboration and partnerships with other organizations within the construction sector.

Build a supportive ecosystem by working together, sharing resources, and advocating collectively.

Create more opportunities, increase awareness, and strengthen the impact of efforts in supporting equity-deserving groups in the trades.

Provide Financial Support

Address the financial needs and challenges of individuals during training by providing financial compensation.

Recognize the sacrifices and difficult choices they may have made to support their families or overcome previous educational circumstances.

Take action to ensure their financial stability and remove barriers to their participation.

Understanding the Working for Workers Act 

The implementation of the Working for Workers Act, and further amendments to the Act, bring forth a range of actions to achieve greater accessibility and inclusivity in the construction sector. These policy changes are crucial steps in the right direction, but it is important to recognize that they alone cannot create the systemic changes needed in the industry.

It requires a collective effort from organizations, industry stakeholders, and individuals to drive meaningful transformation, challenge existing norms, and address deep-rooted barriers. By combining policy changes with a commitment to cultural and systemic shifts, we can create an inclusive construction sector that provides equal opportunities and embraces diversity at all levels.

Drive Systemic Change

Challenge and dismantle deeply rooted barriers and biases in the construction sector.

Engage in a holistic evaluation of practices, policies, and culture to identify and rectify systemic inequities.

Take action to foster true accessibility and inclusivity through systemic change.

Employer Accountability

Undertake due diligence and make necessary changes to mitigate barriers and create an inclusive working environment within the construction sector.

Take action to foster positive change as an employer.

Lower Age Requirements Responsibly

Recognize the labor shortage in the construction industry while prioritizing the health and safety of younger participants. Ensure proper due diligence before admitting individuals into pre-apprenticeship programs.

Lower age requirements responsibly to address the industry's needs while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.

Promote Accessible Pathways

Identify and promote accessible pathways within the construction industry.

Equip individuals with comprehensive information and encourage autonomy over their personal journey and goals.

Provide a clear understanding of potential outcomes associated with different pathways to enable informed decisions.

Enhance Accessibility and Safety

Improve the accessibility of construction sites and prioritize the provision of personal protective equipment (PPE).

Address physical barriers by implementing design modifications such as ramps, accessible pathways, and properly equipped washrooms.

Ensure equal access for all workers, fostering inclusivity and safety in the industry.

Provide Wrap-Around Supports

Offer comprehensive wrap-around supports for individuals entering the construction industry.

Provide assistance, guidance, and resources to ensure their success.

Address various aspects such as training, mentorship, financial aid, and mental health support.

Foster an environment that supports individuals holistically.

Cultivate a Culture of Positive Change

Embrace and champion a culture of positive change in the construction industry.

Collaborate with stakeholders, including employers, workers, educators, and policymakers, to drive collective efforts.

Work together to achieve greater accessibility, inclusivity, and lasting transformation.

Trades in Action

Supporting youth to find meaningful employment in the Trades 

Efforts to support youth in finding meaningful employment in the trades requires challenging traditional perceptions and recognizing the value of alternative pathways. At the Peel District School Board, students are exposed to a range of career options, fostering a more inclusive approach to career development.

Engaging parents and shifting their perspectives is essential, as educating them about the potential benefits of entering the trades empowers them to support their children’s exploration of diverse career options. Collaborating with industry partners helps align educational offerings with workforce demands, ensuring students gain relevant skills and knowledge. Equipping students with comprehensive information about trades and alternative pathways enables informed decision-making, empowering them to pursue paths aligned with their strengths and aspirations. By recognizing individual strengths and aspirations, success becomes unrestricted to a specific path, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where all students can thrive in their chosen career journeys.

Challenge Traditional Perceptions

Challenge the prevailing belief that success is solely defined by attending university.

Recognize and promote the value and potential of trades and alternative pathways.

Broaden understanding of success and create a more inclusive and balanced approach to career development.

Expose students to a range of career options, including college, university, and the workplace.

Engage Parents/Caregivers

Engage parents/caregivers and educate them about the benefits of trades as viable and lucrative career choice.

Challenge traditional views and provide comprehensive information to broaden perspectives.

Empower parents to support their children's exploration of diverse career options.

Take action to ensure parents are well-informed and supportive of alternative pathways.

Foster Industry Collaboration

Collaborate with the industry to align educational offerings with workforce demands.

Establish grants, sector-specific programs, and partnerships to provide students with relevant skills and knowledge for future employment.

Bridge the gap between education and industry to prepare students for diverse opportunities in the trades and alternative pathways.

Equip Students with Comprehensive Information

Provide balanced and comprehensive information to students about trades and alternative pathways.

Ensure equal access to information and guidance regarding trades as for other career options.

Empower students to make informed choices by equipping them with knowledge about various pathways.

Take action to ensure students have the resources to explore different career paths.

Recognize Individual Strengths and Aspirations

Move away from a one-size-fits-all approach to success.

Recognize and embrace individual strengths and aspirations.

Create an inclusive and supportive environment that values unique abilities and goals.

Encourage students to pursue pathways that align with their skills and interests.

Take action to foster an environment that celebrates diverse talents and pathways to success.

The road to becoming a journeyperson  

As a newcomer himself, Rayan Rumble shares his personal journey towards becoming a journeyperson, highlighting the challenges he faced and the steps he took to achieve his goals. His story serves as a testament to the potential and resilience of newcomers in the trades, and it provides valuable insights on how to effectively support and empower individuals embarking on their own path in the trades.

Implement Skills Assessment and Recognition Programs

Implement programs to assess and recognize the skills and qualifications newcomers bring from their home countries.

Evaluate prior work experience, offer equivalency assessments, and provide opportunities for skills upgrading or bridging programs to fill any gaps.

Take action to ensure newcomers' skills are recognized and utilized effectively.

Develop Accessible Training and Education

Collaborate with educational institutions and training providers to develop accessible and flexible training options tailored to the needs of newcomers.

Offer language support, cultural sensitivity training, and pathways to upgrade skills.

Take action to ensure newcomers have equal access to training and education in the trades.

Establish Mentorship and Apprenticeship Programs

Establish mentorship programs that pair newcomers with experienced tradespeople.

Provide guidance, support, and industry-specific knowledge to help newcomers succeed.

Create apprenticeship programs that offer hands-on training, practical experience, and mentorship opportunities.

Take action to help newcomers gain the necessary skills and knowledge in the trades.

Facilitate Networking and Connections

Facilitate networking opportunities and build connections with industry professionals, trade associations, and employers.

Help newcomers access job opportunities, apprenticeships, and mentorship programs.

Host job fairs, industry events, and workshops that bring together newcomers and employers in the trades.

Take action to foster connections and provide pathways to success.

Provide Financial Assistance

Provide financial assistance or grants to help cover the costs of training, certification exams, tools, and equipment required to enter the trades.

Reduce the financial barriers that newcomers may face when pursuing a career in the trades.

Take action to support newcomers by alleviating financial burdens.

Promote Cultural Competency and Diversity Training

Promote cultural competency and diversity training within the trades sector.

Create an inclusive and welcoming environment for newcomers.

Foster an understanding of different cultural backgrounds, address biases, and promote inclusive practices.

Take action to value and celebrate diversity in the trades.

Engage Unions

Actively engage unions in reaching out to newcomers and promoting the benefits and opportunities available in the trades.

Conduct informational sessions, workshops, and recruitment efforts specifically targeted towards newcomers.

Highlight the support and resources provided by unions.

Take action to ensure newcomers are aware of and can access union support in their trade careers.

Overcoming barriers to employment in the Skilled Trades

Overcoming barriers to employment in the Skilled Trades

The insights and strategies presented in this section are the result of the engaging panel discussion featuring the Forum’s expert speakers and host moderator. Their valuable contributions and diverse perspectives have shaped the below calls to action, offering a comprehensive approach to supporting individuals in accessing and thriving in the trades.

Provide Youth Role Models and Mentors

Provide positive role models and mentors for youth interested in the skilled trades.

Showcase successful individuals in the trades, share their achievements, and highlight their personal stories.

Inspire young people to pursue careers in the skilled trades by presenting relatable and aspirational figures.

Take action to empower youth through mentorship and positive role modeling.

Establish Effective Communication Channels

Establish clear and concise communication channels among government agencies, educational institutions, industry associations, and community organizations.

Ensure information regarding opportunities, training programs, and support services reaches the target audience effectively.

Take action to improve communication and overcome barriers to employment in the skilled trades.

Foster Collaboration Among Regions

Encourage collaboration and alignment of efforts among different regions within Ontario to support employment in the skilled trades.

Share best practices, resources, and strategies to work together towards common goals and streamline processes.

Implement joint training programs, knowledge sharing platforms, and coordinated outreach efforts.

Take action to foster regional collaboration and maximize impact.

Tailor Approaches to Regional Demographics

Understand the unique demographics of each region in Ontario to develop targeted approaches in supporting employment in the skilled trades.

Consider factors such as population characteristics, industry demand, and cultural diversity.

Tailor programs and initiatives to the specific needs of each region to identify and address barriers effectively.

Take action to ensure regional strategies align with local contexts.

Promote Trades as a Viable Career Path for Youth

Encourage youth to consider trades as a viable career path through targeted outreach and awareness campaigns.

Conduct school presentations, participate in career fairs, establish mentorship programs, and share success stories of individuals thriving in the trades.

Showcase the benefits and opportunities available to inspire youth to pursue rewarding careers in the skilled trades.

Take action to engage and motivate young people.

Increase Awareness of Different Sectors within Construction

Increase awareness of the diverse sectors within the construction industry.

Expose individuals to the wide range of career opportunities available beyond traditional trades.

Conduct industry presentations, organize site visits, and establish partnerships with employers to showcase the breadth of careers within construction.

Take action to expand knowledge and explore various paths within the industry.

Highlight the Importance of Red Seal Trades

Promote the benefits of obtaining Red Seal certifications, including increased job prospects, higher wages, and the ability to work across provinces.

Emphasize the potential for individuals to earn a living while gaining valuable skills through apprenticeships.

Educate individuals about the value and recognition associated with Red Seal trades.

Take action to raise awareness and motivate pursuit of these certifications.

Support Tangible Skills and Pre-Apprenticeships

Recognize the importance of tangible skills in the skilled trades.

Support pre-apprenticeship programs, such as those offered by the Peel District School Board, to develop foundational skills and knowledge before entering formal apprenticeships.

Bridge the gap between academic education and practical skills required in the trades.

Take action to provide individuals with a solid foundation for success.

Support the Peel Community Benefits Network

Support the Peel Community Benefits Network in addressing barriers to employment in the skilled trades.

Promote inclusivity, equity, and advocate for equitable employment practices.

Collaborate with the network to drive positive change and create more opportunities for underrepresented individuals in the skilled trades.

Take action to amplify the network's efforts.

Community Supports

Leverage Connections and Networks

Efficiently reach out to community members, local organizations, and stakeholders who can contribute to and benefit from community benefits initiatives.

Tap into established relationships to engage and involve the community in efforts to promote positive outcomes and address local needs.

Take action to build and leverage connections and networks for community benefit initiatives.

Identify and Collaborate with Champions

Proactively seek out influential champions within the community and collaborate with them to advance community benefits initiatives.

Take action to identify and collaborate with influential individuals who can champion community benefits initiatives.

Foster Collaboration with Skilled Trades Organizations

Recognize the importance of partnering with skilled trades organizations.

Work closely with these organizations to tap into their expertise, resources, and networks.

Collaborate to create employment opportunities, skills training programs, and apprenticeships for local residents.

Take action to foster collaboration with skilled trades organizations for community benefits initiatives.

Thank You

Speakers

Sephton Spence

Kubbie Construction Founder

Afro Canadian Contractors Association

Rushel Briscoe

First Work Ontario

Marc Soberano

Building Up

Gavin Lawrence

Labour Education Centre

Mike Morosin

Peel District School Board

Matthew Pitter

Peel District School Board

Rayan Rumble

Net Electric & ICEW

Gwyneth Chapman

City of Brampton

Vera Ivetic

Mobilinx

Marykate Grey

Sheridan College

Greg Royal

Sheridan College

PCBN Co-Chairs

Partners

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