Federal Youth Program

This program is temporarily unavailable.

The REACH Construction Skills Program for Youth is funded in part by the Government of Canada through 2024 and is the basis of a multi-year vision for community development which continues to evolve based around our Community Resource and Innovation Centre in downtown Welland.

Through this program youth are employed on contract with Niagara Peninsula Homes (NPH). Using a “work/learn” approach participants gain high value training and work experience in a variety of construction trades in preparation for future employment or as part of career exploration.

The program takes a holistic approach to assisting youth and helping them chart a pathway towards future success. Participants will engage in general life skills and wellbeing, career exploration and job readiness workshops, as well as receiving industry recognized health and safety training and classes in construction technology. The program experience is supported by a variety of community partners, including school boards to provide OSSD credits to adult learners.

Anyone graduating from the program will certainly be better equipped to apply for entry level work in construction or in any trade.

Eligibility

• Entry level, no previous experience required
• Open to youth (16 to 30 yrs) 
• Legally allowed to work in Canada
• Out of full-time work
• Out of full-time school
• Facing some barriers to employment (may be personal, economic, social or systemic)
• Require a positive attitude, willingness to learn and work alongside a diverse group

Program Experience

There are 8 seats available per intake. Participants are paid current minimum wage for the entire program.  Each intake is Mon to Fri @ 7 hrs per day for 24 weeks (there will be 6 intakes over 3 yrs). The programs are approx. 20% classroom/theory, and 80% applied workshop/work experience delivered by industry professionals.  Projects include basic skills training in a workshop setting all the way up to assisting on general construction/renovation community projects.  Click Here to see projects.

The program also includes various financial supports including tool kits, PPE and assistance with transport costs.

Skills and Certifications Gained

• Industry Recognized Certifications in Health and Safety.
• Certificates of Completion in Construction Theory & Applied Trade Skills.
• Workshops in Financial Literacy, Personal Health/Wellbeing, Job Smarts, Teamwork, Communication, Customer Service, Job Search/Applications.
• Connect with industry professionals, local trades & employers.

The Government of Canada Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS)