Business News
BuildForce Canada recognizes National Tradesmen Day 2014

September 19, 2014 – “Today is a great opportunity to show our appreciation for those who’ve made construction their life’s work, and to welcome a new generation,” said Rosemary Sparks, executive director of BuildForce Canada, in recognition of National Tradesmen Day.

“My advice to the next generation is that, if you work hard, you can make a great life and living in the skilled trades,” said John Tomes, a 68-year-old superintendent of manpower with McCain Electric Ltd. in Winnipeg, Man.., who was 17 when he began his career as an electrician. “It’s a good feeling to be able to pass along some of what I’ve learned and experienced.”

This fall, BuildForce Canada is launching its redesigned Careers in Construction website (www.careersinconstruction.ca) to provide more youth-/parent-friendly information about more than 50 different construction trades and occupations.

“There’s tremendous opportunity for a whole new generation of skilled young people,” added Sparks. “Our goal is to make sure they’re aware of all of the advantages of working in construction, so it becomes their first career choice.”

Established by Irwin Tools in 2011, National Tradesmen Day encourages us to show our gratitude to tradesmen, support a local trade school or discuss the contributions of tradesmen with our children.

BuildForce Canada (formerly Construction Sector Council) is a national organization with a mandate to provide labour market data and analysis, as well as programs and initiatives, to help manage workforce requirements and build the capacity and the capability of Canada’s construction and maintenance workforce.