New training program mimics successful German skills development model

Jun. 25, 2015 – A new program from Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) and the Feds hopes to better equip youth with skills for advanced manufacturing careers.

“Empowering students to learn hands-on manufacturing skills and the most advanced manufacturing technologies not only equips our manufacturing workforce of tomorrow, it strengthens the overall competitiveness of Canadian manufacturing and Canada’s economy,” said Jayson Myers, president and CEO of CME.

With the program, CME will recruit 40 second-year college and university students to work at Siemens Canada — who has also joined the initiative — while going to school. Both CME and Siemens will work with participating colleges and universities to better align curricula with the specific skills needs of the labour market, so that graduates are equipped with the skills employers need.

“This new and innovative training model will adapt key elements of the successful German youth skills development model, where students complete their training at both companies and schools at the same time. The model aims to encourage employers to recruit workers at an earlier age to take an active role in their training,” said government representatives.

Funding for the project is provided by the Government of Canada’s Sectoral Initiatives Program, which aims to address current and future skills shortages. By encouraging collaboration between employers and post-secondary education institutions, the government says we can “ensure Canadians get the education and skills they need to succeed in today’s job market and prepare for the economy of tomorrow.”

“Our partnership with Siemens Canada will provide opportunities for 40 students to gain insights and practical experience in a world-class manufacturing environment. This is the future of education.”