YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM EXPANDS ACROSS PROVINCE

High school students across the province will learn more about trades with the expansion of the Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship Program announced today by Advanced Education and Employment Minister Pat Atkinson and Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission (SATCC) Board Chair Paul McLellan. The event was held at Thom Collegiate in Regina, the site of one of seven successful Youth Apprenticeship Program pilots in communities throughout the province.

"Continued growth and prosperity for Saskatchewan depend on meeting labour market needs," Atkinson said. "Raising youth awareness about careers in trades is an important link to increasing the number of skilled workers in the province. This year's $15.5 million increased investment in the training system is the largest this decade, and moves forward our plan to offer more training that is connected to our economy."

"The funding in this budget will enable us to expand our youth apprenticeship program to the entire province in the 2006-07 school year," SATCC Board Chair Paul McLellan said. "The Apprenticeship Commission is promoting skilled trades careers to young people because our economy needs more skilled workers, and apprentices live, work and learn in Saskatchewan."

"Regina Public Schools is pleased to provide the opportunities to students that will result in successful transitions to careers in trades after high school," Regina Public Schools Director of Education Bob Brown said. "This will benefit our students and our community."

"In the pilot phase, students at Thom Collegiate have already benefited from the Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship Program," Thom Collegiate Principal Doug Folk said. "Thom students have received better information about trade careers and apprenticeship programs available in our province from their teachers. We see direct benefits of the program that include encouraging youth to stay in school, recognizing another path for success, and motivating students to achieve in their classes."

In addition to expanding the Youth Apprenticeship Program and apprentice training seats, the province is providing a tool tax credit for apprentices and funding to support First Nations and Métis entering the apprenticeship program.

The youth apprenticeship program was piloted at high schools in Regina, Assiniboia, Moose Jaw, La Ronge, La Loche, Big River and Saskatoon.

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For More Information, Contact:

Dianne Shannon Advanced Education and Employment Regina Phone: (306) 787-0926