BuildForce Canada has launched Construction Career Pathways, a new program aiming to connect job seekers and employers across Canada’s construction sector.

The program facilitates 16-week, paid, entry-level work placements on construction sites. No prior industry experience is needed for workers, and employers can take advantage of financial incentives to help offset onboarding costs.

“Construction is at nearly full employment in most regions across the country, and demands are growing as project owners continue to invest in new builds and retrofit their existing projects to respond to net-zero imperatives,” said Bill Ferreira, executive director of BuildForce Canada. “Many companies are finding it hard to hire to respond to those demands, however. Labour force constraints are cutting across many industries.

Construction Career Pathways was developed to meet the needs of people looking to explore careers in construction, but who have only entry-level skills and experience. The program is ideally suited to a wide diversity of workers, including women, members of Black, Indigenous, and racialized communities, persons with disabilities, newcomers to Canada, and those who identify as LGBTQ2+; people from equity-deserving groups who want to work in construction; young people seeking work experience; and individuals looking for employment or looking to change careers.

For employers, Construction Career Pathways connects small- and medium-sized companies – those with fewer than 500 employees – find entry-level workers who are looking to begin a career in Canada’s construction industry.

A wage subsidy of up to $2,400 per employee is available to businesses that complete their 16-week work placements, with funding provided by the Government of Canada.

Construction Career Pathways is now accepting applications. Placements are available for up to 1,000 workers, with 50 per cent of the program intake allocated to people from traditionally underrepresented groups in the construction sector.