BuildForce launches Pathways program for exploring careers in construction

April 24, 2023 – A new program launched by BuildForce Canada—Construction Career Pathways—aims to connect job seekers and employers across Canada’s construction sector.

“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.

As a result, Ferreira continued, “Many companies are finding it hard to hire to respond to those demands”.

The program was developed to meet the needs of people wishing to explore careers in construction, and possess only entry-level skills and experience.

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

Pathways is intended for small- and medium-sized construction companies (those with fewer than 500 employees).

With funding from the Government of Canada’s Sectoral Workforce Solutions Program, the program makes available a wage subsidy of up to $2400 per employee to businesses that complete the 16-week work placements.

The program is accepting applications now. Placements are available for up to 1000 workers, with 50% of the program intake allocated to people from under-represented groups in the construction sector.