With programs related to skilled trades across all sectors, Fanshawe is one of Ontario’s largest providers of skilled trades and apprenticeship education. However, for many young people or career changers, the process in place to access information on what educational path is most suited to them is daunting.
The Don Crich Skilled Trades Accelerator will be an entrance point for all members of the community to learn more about trades and share employment opportunities. The space is named for Don Crich, founder of Auburn Developments, TerraCorp Management, Auburn Homes and Stonerise Construction, who passed away in 2015. Mr. Crich was passionate about construction and was a mentor to many people who wanted to work in the trades. He was eager to provide advice and he encouraged others to learn a trade and to start their own businesses.
The space will act as a catalyst to transform and exponentially grow enrolment in skilled trades education in our region. By providing a central entry point for prospective students, current students and employers to find all the information they need to pursue opportunities in skilled trades, we are meeting a critical need in the labour market
There is a critical demand in today’s labour market for people who are trained in skilled trades. The supply of workers is shrinking, and the number of jobs is expected to increase by 10 to 20 percent over the next eight years. Fanshawe has more than 40 programs focused on skilled trades and apprenticeship, with more than 5,000 students studying in apprenticeship programs each year.