B.C. Manufacturing Representatives Advise Government on Training Needs

The Industry Training Authority (ITA) has formed a manufacturing sector advisory group, which is tasked with the role of advising government and ITA on industry-specific issues that are key to skills training

The Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters British Columbia and the Alliance for Manufacturing in B.C. led the consultation and recruitment of members of the sector advisory group. This group includes manufacturers that have a history of championing and employing tradespeople, along with representation from small-, medium-, and large-sized firms from across key manufacturing sectors including metal fabrication, construction, and food processing. Aboriginal community members also are advisory members of the group.

“The manufacturing sector advisory group will have an important role in helping government set priorities for skills training funding, aligning it with what the sector needs,” said Shirley Bond, minister of jobs, tourism and skills training and minister responsible for labour. “A key goal of B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint is to build stronger partnerships with industry and labour to deliver training and apprenticeships. It’s great to see the Blueprint working to keep B.C.’s diversified economy strong and growing.”

“The manufacturing sector advisory group is the third sector advisory group to be formed. We are very excited about this collaboration, especially because B.C.’s manufacturing sector is seeing growth at such a rapid pace,” said Gary Herman, CEO, ITA. “The sector is producing an ever-widening range of value-added products, from building materials to aerospace components to electronics and clothing. As such, our sector advisory groups are key components in making sure our province has the right skills, in the right place, at the right time based on labour market demand.”

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