Solving the skills shortage - By NORMAN DE BONO, London Free Press, Canada
'They work with a number of trade unions, and have their apprentices attend Fanshawe, they do a good job with the programs they provide.'
The labourers union also offers apprentice training programs, and on-the-job training accounts for about 90 per cent of the workplace programs, he added. Fanshawe's greatest strengths, however, are in areas training electricians, carpenters, sheet metal and automotive workers.
'Skilled trades have not been promoted as an alternative in the school system until the last few years,' said McKinnon of why there is a shortage now.
'The greatest misconception has been that slower students with learning problems are best suited for trades.'