B.C. Government Caucus
KAMLOOPS – Local students will get some help exploring their options for high-tech and trades training thanks to $25,000 from the B.C. government to launch the Shoulder Tappers program in School District 73.
The Shoulder Tappers program enlists career co-ordinators or recruitment specialists who work closely with students to help them connect with trades and technical training – as well as on-the-job experience.
Co-ordinators help mentor elementary and secondary school students and facilitate student access to technical, academic and vocational courses in industries as diverse as aircraft engineering, heavy-duty mechanics, information technology and early-childhood education.
The co-ordinators also work closely with employers, the Industry Training Authority and the CES Career Education Society to connect students with opportunities.
“This new program will help students in the Kamloops/Thompson School District prepare for rewarding careers by connecting them to the training and mentorship they need to fit into a vibrant workforce,” Kamloops-South Thompson MLA Todd Stone said.
“Working in partnership with educators, employers and community leaders shows strength in numbers and demonstrates our government’s commitment to giving students the best education possible,” Kamloops-North Thompson MLA Terry Lake said.
In December, the provincial government announced a similar program worth $5 million for 15 districts in northern B.C. in partnership with Northern Development Initiative Trust. Funding support from Northern Development allowed the Ministry of Education to extend the program to more districts this year.
The government launched B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint in April 2014 to re-engineer education and training so British Columbians are first in line for careers of tomorrow. The Shoulder Tappers initiative helps government meet this goal.
Over the next three years, new K-12 curriculum is being phased in with new standards in mathematics, sciences, and applied design, skills and technology. It supports opportunities for students to develop the problem-solving and creative thinking skills they need for success in B.C`s tech sector.