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For Immediate Release

March 16, 2005

New Enhanced Language Program Prepares Foreign-Trained Electricians for Employment Success!

Burlington, ON - The Centre for Skills Development & Training (The Centre) is proud to announce the launch of an exciting new, higher level and employment focused English as a Second Language (ESL) program designed to help foreign-trained Electricians and other new Canadians become marketable in the Electrical Trades in Canada: Enhanced Language Training for Electricians.

This dynamic, six-week, full time program, designed for individuals who already posses a baseline level of English language skills, combines higher- level trade-specific English Language training with a hands-on electrical training component that will help participants become familiar with Canadian codes, procedures and licensing requirements.

“For most new immigrants, even foreign-trained professionals, finding employment in their chosen field can be a real challenge,” says Barb Krukowski, Manager of The Centre’s ESL programs. “Language barriers, a lack of familiarity with the dynamics and unique characteristics of their chosen industrial sector and a lack of Canadian work experience are often significant barriers to a smooth transition into the Canadian workforce. This program addresses those specific issues and we’re very excited by the value it represents to the new Canadians of our community.”

Funded by The Government of Ontario and Citizenship and Immigration Canada, the program also provides participants with access to a placement officer who will work with them to identify sectors of the Electrical Trade appropriate for their interests and skills, to target further training or re-training needs and to obtain a non-paying position where they can gain much-needed Canadian experience. In addition to the placement officer, participants also gain access to The Centre’s Bay Area Employment Resource Centre, which is staffed by three career specialists and which contains a comprehensive array of career and job search related tools, materials and information.

This program begins Tuesday, March 29th, 2005. Because it features a “higher level” of English language training, a pre-assessment may be required.

The Centre for Skills Development & Training is a leading provider of quality career and workforce development programs, products and services specializing in Pre-Apprenticeship Trades and Technology, Career Planning and Development and Language Skills and Academic Upgrading.