Province Helps Construction Workers, Companies Access Training

NOTE: A social-media version of this release is available at novascotia.ca/news/smr/2013-07-12-Construction-Training/ . Hi-res photos, video and audio clips will be added after the event.

Construction workers and small businesses will soon have access to more training at their worksite, saving money and time, and helping workers maintain and develop skills for good jobs.

MLA Becky Kent, on behalf of Labour and Advanced Education Minister Frank Corbett, announced provincial funding today, July 12, for a new high-definition, video system that will deliver customized training to more than 750 commercial construction businesses across the province.

"Continuous learning and improving skills are essential to the success of our businesses and our workers," said Ms Kent. "Providing accessible training, particularly for small businesses in rural areas, will help to make businesses more productive and make sure that workers have the skills they need for the job."

The Construction Association of Nova Scotia will deliver the video-based training, which will cut travel costs, be easier for workers and allow more time for coaching and mentoring new employees. The factors are important for an industry that needs to attract and retain skilled labour.

"Our members told us that having to go to Halifax for training costs too much and takes workers off the job," said Duncan Williams, president of the Construction Association of Nova Scotia. "CANS Connect will allow our members to connect with each other, and training across the Atlantic provinces."

The construction industry employs more than 30,000 Nova Scotians. It is estimated that 7,000 more skilled workers will be needed over the next decade.

"There have been some excellent courses offered that we haven't been able to take advantage of because of the cost and time for travel," said Peter Graves, owner of Graves Electrical in Yarmouth. "Having these courses offered using video equipment will now mean that my team can access the training they need to stay competitive."

The system will also allow people to connect and share ideas with others in the industry.

In 2011, the province released its workforce strategy. Key parts of the strategy include supporting learning and skills development, and enhancing and increasing opportunities for success in the workplace.