The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF-FCA) has officially launched the Canadian Apprenticeship Foundation, a new national charitable organization aimed at strengthening equity, leadership and long-term sustainability across Canada’s skilled trades. The initiative expands CAF-FCA’s ability to invest directly in people as the construction sector continues to grapple with persistent labour shortages.
A New Approach to Workforce Development
With demand rising in concrete construction, civil infrastructure and other labour-intensive fields, CAF-FCA is positioning the Foundation as a tool to remove barriers for new entrants. CEO France Daviault noted that apprenticeship opportunities still vary widely across regions and demographic groups.
The Foundation’s programs will focus on mentorship, leadership development and support for underrepresented populations pursuing careers in the trades.
For contractors in concrete forming, foundations and high-rise work, the emphasis on financial, cultural and workplace supports may prove especially important. Apprenticeship completion rates have a direct impact on project timelines, and industry leaders have warned that without stronger pathways, workforce pressures will continue to intensify.
Building Pathways Through Inclusion
The Foundation’s leadership stresses that the goal is not only to address labour shortages, but to ensure the trades are accessible to everyone.
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“This is about ensuring everyone regardless of gender, background, or community has the opportunity to thrive in the skilled trades,” said Shaudia Ricketts, Chair of the Canadian Apprenticeship Foundation. She added that connecting donors with meaningful training and mentorship programs is essential to creating an equitable future for the industry.
A National Hub for Collaboration
CAF-FCA is positioning the Foundation as a central meeting point for industry, government, labour and educators to collaborate on workforce strategies.
Builders will have options to participate through mentorship networks and leadership development initiatives. The charitable model is meant to give employers a structured and measurable way to invest in the next generation of skilled workers, aligning with contractors’ calls for clear, long-term workforce development tools.
A Timely Opportunity for Contractors
With major infrastructure projects planned nationwide and an aging labour force, the need for a more resilient apprenticeship pipeline is vital.
The Canadian Apprenticeship Foundation offers a strategic opportunity for contractors to contribute to a more diverse, reliable and future-ready workforce.
By supporting inclusive training and leadership initiatives, contractors can help shape the skilled trades talent pool that will sustain Canada’s construction sector for decades to come.
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