Expanding Learning Opportunities in STEM and Skilled Trades

News.ontario.ca
July 29, 2019

Ontario is putting a renewed focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math as well as the skilled trades.

Ontario Education Minister Stephen Lecce and Alberta Education Minister Adriana LaGrange signed an agreement while at the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC) meeting in Victoria, B.C. to enhance learning opportunities for students in science, technology, engineering and math as well as the skilled trades.

"Our government is committed to helping Ontario students gain the skills they need to prepare for the demands of the global economy and jobs of the future," said Lecce. "This agreement is another step we are taking to better prepare our kids for future success. By increasing educational opportunities for our students in the STEM and skilled trades sectors, we are giving them the tools they need to be successful in the classroom, to the boardroom, to the shop floor."

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Ontario and Alberta will support and enhance opportunities for elementary and secondary students in STEM fields, and ensure that the skilled trades are recognized as a career of choice by young people, parents and educators.

"Encouraging students to pursue careers in STEM and the skilled trades will help address the current labour shortage Ontario is facing," said Ross Romano, Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities. "There are so many opportunities for Ontario students to prosper in the areas of science, technology, engineering, math and the skilled trades."

"Our government is working hard to ensure our younger generations will get the skills and training needed for the jobs of tomorrow," said David Piccini, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities. "We are focusing on promoting the skilled trades as a first-choice career path for young people and increasing access to the apprenticeship system."

The MOU proposes to expand and enhance existing knowledge sharing and educational cooperation between the two provinces, including:

• data sharing
• research and information about best practices to promote STEM and skilled trades pathways, including increasing engagement with under-represented group
• promoting awareness among secondary school students of postsecondary education opportunities
• exchange of relevant reports and publications, and
• development of other joint educational activities as negotiated between the parties

Quick Facts

• Ontario recently announced supports to strengthen math skills for all students.
• Ontario announced the newly revised Grade 10 Career Studies Course that is now available online, and will be implemented in schools in September 2019 with a central focus on the jobs of the future.
• Funding in 2019-20 for the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program will be $12.7 million.