The B.C. Industry Training Authority (ITA) board of directors has named Shelley Gray its new chief executive officer (CEO). Gray had been serving as interim CEO.
“Shelley brings a unique blend of private and public-sector acumen to the CEO position,” said Roberta Ellis, ITA board chair. “The selection of Shelley was a unanimous decision by the board. She impressed the search committee with the breadth of her experience and depth of understanding of trades training and its importance to the B.C. economy.”
The ITA’s renewed mandate focuses on growing apprenticeships and championing trades diversity and its strategic plan aligns with the government priorities of affordability, service and building a strong and sustainable economy that supports jobs throughout the province.
“Our government is committed to a strong economy strengthened by a diverse workforce that represents all of B.C.,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training.
Many opportunities are available for a career in the skilled trades that build and maintain our communities. Over the decade, 900,000 job openings are projected, with 71,000 of those in the trades. From building roads and bridges, creating artisan masterpieces, or maintaining machinery there are more than 100 trades to choose from.
LNG Canada CEO and ITA board member Andy Calitz: “Patience, respect, and building healthy relationships are fundamental to the success of any project and our new CEO exemplifies these fundamental leadership characteristics. I am very pleased to welcome Shelley to her new role.”
ITA board member and BC Federation of Labour board member Laird Cronk: “A key element of the ITA’s strategic plan is to focus on the demand for highly paid skilled jobs and support and build the supply of apprentices and qualified tradespeople. I am confident that Shelley’s commitment to this fundamental goal will serve trades training well.”
ITA leads and coordinates British Columbia’s skilled trades system. ITA works with apprentices, employers, industry, labour,
