Prince George, B.C. – The Prince George School District has received $30,000 in funding from the Industry Training Authority (ITA) to continue a trades training program.

The SSA program is a dual-credit program which allows students who are 15 years old or older (grades 10,11,12) to begin the work-based training component of an apprenticeship program while still in high school.

District superintendent Brian Pepper says 68 students are currently accessing the program and considers it extremely valuable.

“There is a need for a skilled workforce, especially in the LNG corridor and central/northern BC. It provides another learning and ultimately employment option for youth in our district. Additionally this is a way for our students to complete requirements for school graduation at the same time as getting a heads start with trades credentialing.”

He says the funding helps assist staff “develop curriculum modules, connect with industry partners, and also provides introductory trades training opportunity discussions with students in our high schools.”

The ITA funded 26 school districts ($770,000) and partners with the Ministry of Education to deliver the program.

In addition to SSA, Pepper says the district also partners with CNC to provide up to 1 year of trades education in the college environment, has initiated a number of elementary school based trades exposure programs and also partners with the Prince George Construction Association to offer Heavy Metal Rocks – a three day experiential program for those interested in construction careers.