b'INCLUSIVITYBUILDFORCE CANADA for a minimum of three months. The In specific terms of B.C.s labourprogram works with both participants and STEPPINGshortage, James Raiswell, director ofemployers to help improve retention and communications with BuildForceensure long-term success. Canada, says, The latest edition of our STONES Construction and Maintenance LookingAlthough the overall labour shortage Forward report for B.C. spans thecontinues to be an issue, targeting period from 2024 to 2033. In it, weunderrepresented groups has helped SKILLED TRADESproject that the province could face afill many of the necessary jobs in B.C.s shortfall of some 17,700 workers. Thatsouthern interior. By reaching out to EMPLOYMENTfigure assumes a rise in employment ofunderrepresented groups such as women, PROGRAM (STEP)10,800 workers that is driven mostly by2SLGBTQIA+, recent immigrants, activity in the non-residential sector, butIndigenous peoples, racialized personsPROMOTESwith some growth in residential activityand younger people, employers can tap through the middle years of the into a broader talent pool, Bitz says. INCLUSIVITY forecast period. Overall, our initiative will help to BY JAMES PETERS alleviate the labour shortage and meet Like many provinces, B.C. will havethe growing demand for workers in the to contend with the retirement of aconstruction industry.significant number of workers over this period, Raiswell continues. WeShe adds, Increasing diversity in the project that as many as 43,200 workerstrades fosters a more inclusive industry will exit the industry by 2033. Thatand attracts a broader range of talent, figure amounts to about 23 per centmaking careers in the trades more n 2006, the British Columbiaof the industrys 2023 labour force. Asappealing to future generations. This I skills shortage but also ensures a more I Construction Associationmany as 36,300 new entrants underapproach not only helps to address the (BCCA) created the Skilledthe age of 30 are expected to help offset some of this decline, but the industrydynamic and diverse workforce forTrades Employment Program (STEP)must consider diversifying its recruitingthe future.with the broad aim of removing barriersefforts in order to address this potential for people underrepresented in B.C.shiring gap. And what about the challenges that exist trades. The initiative remains highlybeyond just matching job seekers with successful as a means of helping toSTEP SPECIALISTS employers? There are many, explains Bitz, address labour shortages in B.C., andsuch as:as an advocate for promoting inclusiveSTEPs regional employment placement specialists work closely with employers1. Attracting and retaining talent: work sites.to assess hiring needs and connectEmployers need to create a work Simply put, STEP is dedicated tothem with job-ready apprentices.environment that encourages long-fostering diversity and inclusionOnce a placement is secured, STEPterm commitment and growth. This within the skilled trades, says Susancontinues with support and follow-upscould include offering higher wages, Bitz, regional employment placement specialist with STEP. Our program offers personalized services tailored to each job seekers unique needs, beginning with a thorough assessment. From there, we provide employment readiness and soft skills coaching, along with resume revision and job search support. That includes providing relevant labour market information and interview coaching. Where needed, participants can access funding for short-duration safety training, tools and personal protective equipment to ensure theyre ready for work.28 SOUTHERN INTERIOR CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION'