Matching eager workers with construction job opportunities

Creating jobs for Islanders

Sam Sanderson says new government funding will extend a program that fills jobs in Prince Edward Island’s fast-growing construction industry.

Team Construction is a program that helps young Islanders get skills training and find employment in the construction industry. The Construction Association of Prince Edward Island – which runs Team Construction – recently received $295,000 in funding as part of nearly $1 million the Prince Edward Island government awarded to community groups that help Islanders become employment ready and connect with jobs in the expanding Island economy.

 “This is absolutely wonderful news -- it allows for year two of Team Construction,” said Sanderson, the association’s general manager. “Our first year was very successful with the intake of 20 participants. We’re getting a lot of traffic, both through social media and our new webpage trying to connect employees with employers.”

Sanderson said their program has had great results, with 90 per cent of those who participate going on to land jobs within the construction industry.

Workforce and Advanced Learning Minister Sonny Gallant said he’s pleased to support industry associations that help prepare people find their place in the Island workforce.

“By supporting community organizations, we put our money where it will directly benefit Islanders,” he said. “Our Island workforce is growing and creating opportunities. This funding allows government to help Islanders prepare for and secure those jobs.”

Sanderson said his group already has plans to expand its work to help train people who will fill the need for workers in Prince Edward Island’s construction industry.

“Presently on our Island builder site we have over 170 jobs posted for people in the construction industry,” he said. “Any time we can help get people involved in the industry it is a huge benefit not only for the association but also for our members.”