Industry Training Authority and British Columbia Chamber of Commerce Enter Partnership to Enhance Employer Engagement and Promote Apprenticeship Sponsorship in BC

VANCOUVER, BC--(Marketwired - June 01, 2016) - The Industry Training Authority (ITA) and the British Columbia Chamber of Commerce (BCCC) are embarking on a new partnership to strengthen BC's trades community as a response to the increasing demand for skilled trades people across the province. ITA and BCCC will work collaboratively to further engage industry members at regional and provincial levels and raise awareness of the many benefits of the hiring apprentices in the community.

This agreement will serve as a starting point for ITA and BCCC to explore joint initiatives and communications efforts to empower employers across BC with the right resources and support for successful apprentice sponsorships. With over 39,000 registered apprentices in BC, it is a great time for employers to hire apprentices and ensure they are securing their future workforce. The new partnership is another step towards achieving the industry engagement and trades training goals set out in B.C.'s Skills for Jobs Blueprint.

"This partnership is a step toward achieving a strong, stable, and sustainable workforce for our growing economy," says Greg Kyllo, Parliamentary Secretary for the BC Jobs Plan. "Together, ITA and the BC Chamber of Commerce can continue to promote employer engagement in our trades training system and encourage more employers to become apprenticeship sponsors so that British Columbians can continue to get the on-the-job skills training they need to succeed in the trades."

"Community and industry engagement is integral to the growth and sustainability of BC's strong and diverse economy," says Gary Herman, CEO, Industry Training Authority. "We are excited to partner with the BC Chamber of Commerce and look forward to connecting with employers and business owners across the province to secure the skilled trade workforce."

"Through this innovative partnership with ITA, BC's Chambers are stepping up to promote skills training and apprenticeship opportunities in communities of every size throughout the province," says Maureen Kirkbride, Interim CEO, BC Chamber of Commerce. "As BC's largest business organization, we hope to see this partnership deliver upskilled local workforces and strengthened businesses right across the province -- while positioning our province to better meet its skilled labour needs."

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