SLAAMB

The Sioux Lookout Aboriginal Area Management Board is establishing a new Centre for Aboriginal Apprenticeship Research (CAAR) in Sioux Lookout. SLAAMB will work with the Apprenticeship office in Kenora (MTCU) to assess the skill levels of the various community members who have worked in the construction field over the last 5 to 20 years without their trade certification. After assessing their skill levels, we will prepare them to challenge the various trade exams (carpentry, electrical and plumbing). We will also place some people in an apprenticeship to obtain their trades' certification with various contractors. At the same time, we will deliver pre-apprenticeship and upgrading of employment skills using ICT applications such as video conferencing and web based on-line content that will enable people to stay in their home community while upgrading / improving their skills. CAAR's objective is to plan, implement and document the apprenticeship development services and supports developed for the Centre for Aboriginal Apprenticeship Research project.

Goals are:

• Increase the number of Aboriginal people in various trades across Northern Ontario.
• Utilizing various ICT applications to enhance the delivery of service.
• Provide the support services needed for the participants.
• Liaise with First Nations, Ministry of Training, College and Universities and Employers.
• Document all findings