Global/Cross-Border Training and Education Webcast

Roadmaps for Success: Indigenous Skilled Workers Tell Their Stories

Thursday, February 20, 2025

3:00 PM - 4:30 PM ET

Free to International Foundation and ISCEBS members

The recruitment and retention of Indigenous apprentices that lead to successful careers in the skilled trades have been long-standing challenges across many industries. As the demand and supply crisis deepens for skilled trades workers, finding individuals willing and capable to work in these fields is of increasing importance, especially since local communities seek to benefit from development projects. In Canada, Indigenous peoples represent the fastest growing demographic with the youngest population. Many large infrastructure and resource extraction projects occur in and around Indigenous territories, creating significant opportunities for Indigenous people to enter the skilled trades and find local employment—provided they have access to and successfully complete the required training.

This panel brings together indigenous tradespeople to share their personal stories of overcoming obstacles and achieving success in the skilled trades. Their firsthand accounts offer valuable insights into the challenges industries—including employers, trade unions and training providers—face in recruiting and retaining Indigenous apprentices. The discussion will focus on several key topics:
  • Identifying motivations for entering the skilled trades
  • Lessons learned: Overcoming obstacles to participate in apprenticeship programs and achieve a successful career in the skilled trades
  • Celebrating success: Reflecting on what being a skilled tradesperson has meant to them and sharing meaningful experiences
  • Building partnerships and trust: How to collaborate successfully with Indigenous leaders and communities to address the skilled trades shortage
  • Adapting training programs: Exploring ways employment and skills training programs can become more accessible and successful in recruiting and training new Indigenous workers.

Speakers

Illustration of a winding road leading to a star

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