Apprenticeship Agency Names CEO

The Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency has appointed Marjorie Davison as its first chief executive officer.

Ms. Davison has served as interim CEO since the agency was launched in July and will continue to work with industry to improve opportunities for apprentices in the province.

"The agency board has tremendous confidence in Marjorie," said Carol MacCulloch, board chair and member of the recruitment panel. "She is a proven leader and an extremely knowledgeable individual who is ideally suited to engage industry in apprenticeship, challenging us to make the most of opportunities that careers in the skilled trades can offer to young Nova Scotians."

Ms. Davison has served as chair of the Canadian Council of Directors of Apprenticeship, and was past president of Techsploration, an organization aimed at empowering young women to explore careers in the trades, science and technology. She has more than 20 years of experience as a senior manager with government, including seven years as director of apprenticeship training and skills development for the province.

Ms. Davison has been a leader in supporting the work on harmonizing apprenticeship programming across Canada, helping to improve the mobility of apprentices. She also supported the recent signing of an agreement-in-principle between Nova Scotia and Alberta to recognize apprentices' pre-apprenticeship training.

"I've had the good fortune of working with trades employers and industry organizations throughout my career," said Ms. Davison. "I'm looking forward to continuing these relationships and supporting employers as they lead Nova Scotia's apprenticeship system to success."

The CEO will work with industry to increase awareness of apprenticeship as a viable career path and create more opportunities for apprentices through better access to training.

"Ms. Davison has been integral to the province's apprenticeship system," said Kelly Regan, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. "She has demonstrated her knowledge of the issues and is a true advocate for the agency and for industry."

Ms. Davison will meet with employers across the province to provide an update on the agency and promote opportunities for greater employer involvement. Sessions will take place at NSCC campuses beginning Oct. 20.

For a complete list of employer sessions, visit www.nsapprenticeship.ca/update .