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Ontario Skills Program Couples Peterborough Students with Construction, Aviation Employers

The Ontario government has announced funding for a skills development program targeting high school students in the Peterborough region who are interested in careers in aviation and construction. 

During a press conference at the Peterborough Airport, the province revealed an investment of $435,210 through the Skills Development Training (SDF) stream for the Build and Soar program. This initiative will provide training for 75 high school students. 

In collaboration with Peterborough and the Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED), the program will connect local employers with students enrolled in the construction and aerospace and aviation specialist high skills major school programs. The students will participate in an eight-week placement to gain practical, on-the-job experience, building on the skills they have acquired in their school programs. Those with an interest in aviation careers, including potential military or commercial pilots, will also receive flight training using simulators. 

“We need local businesses to invest in bright, motivated young individuals who are eager to take the first step in their careers,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development and MPP for Northumberland-Peterborough South. 

The Build and Soar program will recruit students from schools within the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPRDSB) and the Peterborough Victoria Northumberland Clarington Catholic District School Board. 

KPRDSB Chairperson Jaine Klassen Jeninga emphasized the program’s value, stating, “This initiative connects our Grade 11 and 12 students in specialized high skills programs with summer work experience in high-demand sectors, providing on-the-job training and fostering talent to support local employers.” 

Catholic board trustee Mary Ann Martin commended the program, noting that participating students have shown significant promise in construction and aviation-related courses. 

Rhonda Keenan, President and CEO of PKED, highlighted the importance of the SDF stream, which is accessible to a wide range of employers, industry associations, labor unions, and other entities. She underscored the critical role of companies in offering mentorship and valuable skill-building opportunities. 

“Employers consistently express the need for recognized, specialized skill sets,” Keenan said. “They are always seeking assistance in recruiting the right people.”