Report recommends greater emphasis on skilled trades, more experiential learning opportunities in Ontario

In its "Advantage Ontario" report, the province's Jobs and Prosperity Council says a diversified and dynamic Ontario economy requires a stronger emphasis on skilled trades. "Ontario's youth and their parents are often unaware of job opportunities in the skilled trades and the variety of educational programs that can prepare them for these jobs," the report states. "The Council believes that it is the responsibility of business, government and the education sector to develop and disseminate up-to-date information on labour market opportunities and make it available when students are making decisions about what career path they will take." The Council also calls on the private sector to increase the number of experiential learning opportunities for secondary and PSE students by providing more co-ops, work placements, and apprenticeships. The Council says the Ontario government also has a role to play in working with the PSE system and high schools to ensure the capacity, facilities, and equipment needed for experiential learning are widely available. Jobs and Prosperity Council News Release | Report