A new program called One Journey will cover 100 percent of the training costs for people entering the trucking industry as truck drivers. Three applicants will start in mid-October, and three more will start in January 2020.
“Employers will pre-hire the participants, so that a job is guaranteed at the end of the training,” says Brian Oulton, Executive Director, PEI Trucking Sector Council. “Participants will also be paid a stipend, and most training expenses will be covered.”
The new program is based on a Nova Scotia model that has seen success.
“The retention rate of people in that program is almost 100 percent, which is nowhere near the rate on PEI.”
The 12-week program will include eight weeks in the classroom and four weeks with a driver coach, followed by a full-time position.
“Companies will be involved right away, and will help address training gaps and build skills.”
Human Resources help
The Trucking Sector Council has hired an HR Coordinator, who will start in October. “The Coordinator will help match employment opportunities between individuals and employers as well as ensure more of our industry positions are being posted.
“The Coodinator will also work closely with industry to help develop new strategies and opportunities around immigration, training, and recruiting non-traditional entrants to the industry.”
PEI Trucking Sector Council website has a new look. Visit www.peitsc.ca to find tips for entering the trucking field, including the following:
- Job board listing trucking-related jobs
- Labour market information: explore the industry, the careers, and the training available
- Tips on finding a job in the trucking field
- Job descriptions
- Programs to help new candidates enter the field
- Information about training in Atlantic Canada
The PEI Trucking Sector Council welcomes people interested in starting a career as a truck driver to attend a Career in trucking information session.
The next sessions will be held at 9:30 am on October 17 and November 21.
Seats are limited, so interested individuals should apply right away. For more information or to register, contact the PEI Trucking Sector Council, Farm Centre, Charlottetown, at 902-566-5563 or email [email protected].
Visit www.peitsc.ca.
Funded by the Department of Education and Lifelong Learning through the Canada/PEI Labour Market Agreements.
October 2019 Issue
Page 4
by Heidi Riley