Category Archives: LBS Services

Benefits of Adult Training Programs

Partner Feedback

In June 2022 we asked our community partners in the Literacy Ontario Central South (LOCS) region to tell us what they have observed when they refer clients to adult training programs in Haliburton, City of Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough, Northumberland and Hastings. The following captures a summary of the benefits they shared in these discussions.

Thank you to our community partners for participating in this discussion and for the fantastic feedback. It really was great hearing how our programs are valuable to you and your clients.

Confidence

Our partners said that the #1 benefit to adult training programs is the confidence their clients gained when they experience success. By reaching their goals, learners gained the confidence to move on to other learning opportunities such as post-secondary programs. For others, this increased confidence translated to success in job interviews and led to success on the job.

Someone said that adult training programs are “in the confidence-building business”.

Our partners shared some examples, including the learner who achieved their Grade 12 diploma when they didn’t think they could. Another learner was accepted into a college program when they never thought it was possible. One partner said their client discovered that they were not too old to learn. Others have heard their clients say they learned that they were capable of doing more than they thought.

Adult Training

Our partners pointed out that our programs are designed for adults and are led by instructors who recognize that adults bring existing skills and experiences to their training.

We heard that there is value in our system of developing customized learning plans. Training is designed around the goals of each person; this means learners can focus on what they need to learn, and they don’t spend time covering material they already know. This is a real benefit for people anxious to move on to a job or further education.

It was also pointed out that our programs are flexible, which is important since many adult learners are also working, and many learners are women with children.

Learners in our programs:

Learn alongside other adults
Develop a customized learning plan
Set their own goals
Work on things they need to work on to reach their goal
Set their own schedule to fit work and family life commitments

Hard Skills/Technical Skills

We heard that the hard skills, or technical skills, that people gain are another benefit to our adult training programs. Learners can refresh their skills or learn new skills. Our partners found that these hard skills increased job options for their clients. As well, many of the hard skills learned prepared their clients for success in post-secondary programs and apprenticeships.

Some skill examples below:

Using a computer, phone and/or tablet
Budgeting
Preparing for a driver’s license test
Reading a tape measure
Operating a Point-of-Sale machine
Money math
Math for the skilled trades
Reading, writing and communication

Soft Skills/Transferable Skills

It was recognized that learners also develop transferable skills/soft skills. These skills help people with job retention. One person said they referred a client because they needed computer skills but, through the computer course, they also gained many soft skills. Another person developed conflict management skills, something that had been a barrier to their ability to retain jobs in the past.

Some skill examples below:

Time management
Organization
Giving and receiving feedback
Working in a group
Working independently
Resilience
Curiosity
Goal setting
Perseverance

Relationships and Community

Our partners also noticed that learners make connections with other people in our training programs. Connections are also developed with instructors. Learners develop community and often develop friendships with other participants. Many see the program as a touchpoint and often want to return to celebrate other accomplishments, e.g., acceptance in a program or finding a job. Our partners also told us that they are confident that their clients will be referred to other community services if there is a need.

Support and Transitions

Finally, our partners pointed out that when people are in transition, adult training programs are a good option. Many clients are referred for assistance as they prepare to return to the workplace or to a post-secondary program after some time away. Adult training programs help people with these transitions. This means our adult training programs often become a steppingstone to other successes.

Some transition examples:

Parents returning to the workplace
Those returning to work after an injury
Those leaving jail
People feeling stuck in a situation and needing support to move forward
People needing a refresher before returning to school, including study skills and learning strategies

Thank You

Thank you again to our partners for sharing their experiences and observations!

If you would like to make a referral or you are interested in attending one of our programs you can also contact any of our adult training programs directly.

Features of Adult Training Programs

Adult training programs focus on helping individuals reach the goals they have for work, learning and life. The following list outlines the ways adult training programs are unique.

Support

Training is free
Funding for childcare, transportation and technology may be available
Successes are recognized and accomplishments are celebrated

Training Designed for Adults

Programs are supportive, adult-focused and flexible
Instructors understand the learning needs of adults
Training is customized to the needs and goals of each person
Each person completes an assessment so they know their current strengths and needs
- People only study things they need to learn for their goal – there is no need to study what they already know
Each person develops their own learning plan
Learning is activity-based or task-based so people learn the things they will need to know at work, in class and in their lives
- For example, many of the documents we use have been provided to us directly by employers

Goal Paths

People select from five goal path options including goals of Secondary, Post-Secondary, Work, Apprenticeship or Independence.

Goals are set and then measured along the way

Learning Space

We offer a quiet, inclusive, safe and welcoming place to learn
People have a safe place to try new things
We offer training online, in groups and one-to-one, including tutors
Learning includes individualized support

Community

Our programs support the goals of our partners and funders
We work with our partners and respect any action plan developed
We communicate with partners and work together to support learners
We make referrals to our community partners, as needed

Learn More

Please contact Carrie Wakeford if you would like to learn more. You can also contact any of the adult training programs directly.

The Third Apprenticeship Connection Newsletter

Issue #3 of The Apprenticeship Connection newsletter has been published.

This newsletter includes great articles about the highest paying trades in Canada, information about apprenticeships and newcomers, information about Canadian Armed Forces veterans applying their skills in construction and information about Skilled Trades Ontario and their new website. This newsletter also shared the LOCS blog post “Math and the Skilled Trades“. Finally you will find information about Perfectio a magazine by the Coalition ontarienne de formation des adultes (COFA).

Every issue of The Apprenticeship Connection ends with a great list of resource links.

If you would like access to past issues you can find them at:

Issue #1: The Apprenticeship Connection post.
Issue #2: The Second Apprenticeship Connection post.

You are welcome to share this newsletter with anyone who may be interested.

If you would like more information about how adult training programs in Ontario supports the skilled trades, contact Carrie at or call (705) 313-4385.

Computer Skills for Post Secondary Prep

Core Skills

For anyone entering a post-secondary program, including the skilled trades, it is important to have some core computer skills before starting.

Gaining computer skills before entering a diploma, certificate or apprenticeship program will mean all in-class time can be focused on learning the content of the program. Trying to learn computer skills at the same time as completing course work can be overwhelming. It can become a barrier to success. Adult training programs can help to remove this barrier.

The computer skills listed below can be used as a checklist. Depending on the program, it may not be necessary to have all of these skills, but these are the most common. Post-secondary programs often provide a list of the computer skills needed. Adult training programs will customize training based on the goals of each individual.

Contact one of the adult training programs to learn about eligibility and the options for gaining the computer skills needed for success in post-secondary programs.

Checklist Below:

Hardware

Hardware you will want to be familiar with:

Computer (desktop or laptop)
Keyboard and Mouse
Printer
Modem
Smartphones
Tablets

Operating Systems

This is the software that runs your computer – we will focus on the Windows operating system because it is the most common.

Turn a computer on
- This may require you to log on with a password
Move around Windows
- Use the start button to access settings and apps
- Use the taskbar
- Open the Recycle Bin
- Find programs
- Find and use desktop icons – including shortcuts to programs
- Run more than one program
- Close programs
- Log off
Work Safely
- Download and use virus and malware programs
- Maintain privacy
- Understand risks online

File Management

Create, move, rename and delete folders and files
Understand file extensions, e.g., .pdf (Portable Document Format), .xls (Excel file) and .docx (Word File)
Use USB flash drives
Use cloud storage – understand the cloud
Find documents on a computer
Upload a document
Scan a document
Save a document as a PDF

Software/Apps

Word Processing

Create and save documents using software such as Microsoft (MS) Word or Google Docs
Name and file documents
Enter content (typing)
Use basic formatting, e.g., bold, underline, capitalization, changing font and font size, cut and paste content and adjusting spacing
Use spell check
Print files, including previewing and adjusting settings
Save and close files
Find and open files and make changes to the content and resave

Spreadsheets

Create and save spreadsheets using software such as Microsoft (MS) Excel or Google Sheets
Enter content into a worksheet
Enter basic formulas
Format cells
Name worksheets
Print worksheets, including previewing and adjusting settings
Save and close files
Find and open files and make changes to the content and resave

Email

Create an email account
Use email software e.g., Gmail or Outlook to send and receive email
Forward email, e.g., to your phone
Type and send messages
Manage your email, e.g., respond, forward, save, file and delete email
Use calendars
Manage safety, e.g., identify email scams
Attach a document, file or picture

Internet

Access the Internet using an Internet Browser such as Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Opera or Edge
Search for a website using Google Search and/or Bing
Bookmark a site
Know how to assess content – is it Canadian?, is it legitimate?
Open more than one tab
Copy and paste content
Understand URLs
Refresh a page
Manage safety and security
Access social media, e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram

PowerPoint

Note: you will only need these skills if you are required to make presentations.

Create and edit slide presentations
Select a theme (the look of the presentation)
Add content and images

Online Learning

Log into a Learning Management System such as D2L
Find and download files
Upload assignments
Communicate with instructors and other students
Participate in real time webinars and meetings using programs such as Zoom
Complete online assignments
Complete online quizzes
Post comments

Phones and Tablets

Send a text
Download and install apps
Access email
Search the Internet

On the Job

To learn more about the computer skills needed for the trades, visit the post Computers and the Skilled Trades and Digital Skills in the Skilled Trades.

It is also important to note that in a 2022 survey of employers many said that employees and new hires require digital training. The skills employers are looking for include:

51% said Software/Apps (e.g., Word, Excel, Calendars, Accounting, GPS, Google Docs/Forms).

40% said File Management, Sharing and Collaborating (e.g., Folders, Files, Attachments, Permissions, Dropbox).

30% said Hardware (e.g., Computer/Keyboard, Phone, Scanners, Point-of-Sale).

For the full list of digital literacy needs identified by employers visit page 14 of the 2022 EmployerOne Survey.

To Learn More

For more information about how you can gain these skills for work or ongoing education or training, contact one of the adult training programs in your area or contact Carrie at LOCS – or 705 313-4385.

Computers and the Skilled Trades

There isn’t a job that hasn’t been touched in some way by digital technology, and this includes the skilled trades. The type and level of computer skills needed will vary depending on the trade, however, it is safe to say at the very least, basic computer skills are necessary.

The Ontario Government offers a way to search job profiles. Enter a job you are interested in and open the profile. These profiles are full of great information.

If you select the heading “In Demand Skills and Knowledge” you will find a list of skills needed for success in the job. It is common to find Computer Literacy listed in the ‘Foundational’ column for most jobs. You will also find a basic list of the software commonly used on the job. Below is an example of the skills section of the profile for Welders and Related Machine Operators.

Skills needed by Welders and Related Machine Operators

Training Programs

Adult training programs prepare people for success at work and in any ongoing education or training programs they take. This training includes computer training for people who are already registered as an apprentice or those thinking about starting an apprenticeship.

Computers and Software

Adult training programs can help you develop the computer skills you need for success in a college program. If you search for college level programs online, you will find computer and software skills are often listed. For example:

the Heavy Equipment Operator at Fleming lists Computer Skills as being important for students in this program. They also list the technology required: “Students are required to have their own computer, Internet access, webcam and microphone.” It is safe to assume that this hardware is needed to attend online classes.
the Welding program at Loyalist has Computer Applications as a first semester course. The computer applications course includes “Outlook (email), PowerPoint, Word and Excel.”

Online Learning

Online learning is becoming increasingly common in the trades. For example, at least part of most college courses are offered online. Adult training programs can help you prepare for success in taking computer-based training. This may include:

using PDFs, videos and online documents
keyboarding, creating online accounts, logging in and moving around a course, uploading assignments, posting comments, asking questions and completing online tests and quizzes.
using video conferencing software to attend class.

Communication

At work and in class you will likely be required to use technology to communicate with others. Our programs can help you develop these online communication skills. This includes:

using smartphones, tablets and computers to send emails and texts to instructors, other students, co-workers, supervisors, customers and suppliers.

Research

At work and in class you will need to be able to use the Internet and Search Engines to research information and resources. In our programs you will have the opportunity to develop your online research skills. This includes:

finding things such as how-to documentation, videos, manuals and information about products and services using websites, blogs, discussion forums and social media.

Apps

Our programs can also provide you with support as you develop your skills downloading and using applications (apps). Apps are common in the trades. Some apps are designed specifically for a trade or a company. Other apps are general and can be used by people in any trade. This may include using apps for:

mapping, for calculating, converting and measuring, for estimating, for logging/tracking hours, for ordering, managing projects, managing documents and taking notes, as well as for tool tracking and planning.

Speaking of apps: Visit our blog post about the Skills Ontario App that will help you learn about careers in the trades.

Virtual Reality

It is helpful to have experience using Virtual Reality since many trades are now using Virtual Reality Simulations, as well as Augmented Reality to provide training. Many employment service organizations have a Virtual Reality option available to anyone interested in a career in the trades. Virtual Reality is a great way to experience a trade before making a career decision. To see some Virtual Reality Simulation options for the trades, visit CareerLabsVR. To learn more about how you can book a Virtual Reality experience, contact an employment services office in your area.

Computers in the Trades – Some Examples

In addition to software, online communication, research, apps and online learning, there are other computer skills needed in the trades. We have provided a few examples below.

The list below represent some of the in-demand careers in the trades in the LOCS area. We have used labour market information from the Centre for Workforce Development and the Workforce Development Board. For a detailed list of in demand trades, visit our Labour Market Information post.

Beside each occupation there is a number. You can click on this number to learn more about the career at the National Occupational Classification site.

“The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is Canada’s national system for describing occupations. You can search the NOC to find where an occupation is classified or to learn about its main duties, educational requirements”.
The NOC is currently moving from a four to a five-digit code. You may find the four-digit code still used in some places.

Bakers (63202)
Calculators, Point-Of-Sale systems, spreadsheets (for planning and ordering). There is also software to help with ingredient calculations and for managing costs.

Carpenters (72310)
Calculators, word processing, spreadsheets, billing and accounting software, estimating software and computer-controlled layout equipment (measuring tools).

Cooks (63200)
Calculators, spreadsheets, word processing, database, digitally controlled kitchen equipment, Enterprise Digital Assistant and restaurant management software.

Heavy Equipment Operators (73400)
Calculators, GPS, electronic scales, word processing, spreadsheets, database and laser grade control systems, displays and systems-monitoring controls.

Industrial Electricians (72201)
Spreadsheets, database, graphics software, project management software, handheld electrical equipment for electrical readings. They also install and service ethernet and process control systems.

Plumbers (72300)
Calculators, word processing, database, spreadsheets, accounting software, CAD – Computer Aided Design, online plumbing software and project management software.

Transport Truck Drivers (73300)
Calculators, GPS, database, fleet tracking/management software and handheld electronic logbooks.

Heavy-Duty Equipment Mechanic (72401)
Calculators, database, diagnostic equipment and handheld devices.

Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers (75110)
Calculators, database, digital multimeters and topographical information.

Electronic Service Technicians (22311)
Calculators, word processing, spreadsheets, database, load and configure software, programs for simulation purposes, diagnostic tools – oscilloscopes, application specific measurement and diagnostic software and apps to run diagnostic tests.

Hairstylists and Barbers (63210)
Calculators, Point-of-Sale systems, digital cameras, database, salon management software, accounting software and industry apps.

If you would like more information about how you can develop the computer skills you will need for success in an apprenticeship, contact an adult training centre in your area or reach out to Carrie Wakeford or at (705) 313-4383.

LOCS Region Program Summary

A PDF that summarizes all of the LBS programs available in your region is now available for download.

City of Kawartha Lakes LBS Programs

Haliburton LBS Programs

Hastings LBS Programs

Northumberland LBS Programs

Peterborough LBS Programs

Entering a Skilled Trade

Adult Training and Skills Development organizations offer programs that help people prepare to “hit the ground running” when they register for an apprenticeship.

We also offer programs to current apprentices who may need some support through their training. We can even help people prepare to write the Certificate of Qualification (C of Q).

Free, personalized training that you can start right away, both online or in person – what could be easier?

Pre-Apprenticeship – Where to Start

Whether you want training or a refresher, we can design pre-apprenticeship training for you so you are ready to complete your apprenticeship successfully.

We can help you identify the strengths you already have for the trade you want to work in.

We can also help you identify any areas you may want to upgrade or refresh before starting out in a trade.

Some trades even have a ‘trade specific’ assessment. This will help you see what is needed for success in the trade you are thinking about entering.

Training Options

Computer Skills: You may be interested in gaining computer skills so you are ready to do the in-class part of your training. You may be interested in learning to use tablets that many employers will ask you to use on the job. You might be interested in learning about apps since many trades use apps now. See our post Computers and the Skilled Trades.

Communication: You might be thinking about building on the communication skills you will need for success both in class and on the job.

Math: Many trades rely on various levels of math. If it has been a while since you have taken a math course, perhaps a refresher will help sharpen your skills so trades specific math will be less of a challenge. See our post Math and the Skilled Trades.

Soft Skills: Employers tell us they want employees with skills like problem solving, time management, teamwork, organization and customer service. We can help you sharpen these skills so you can add them to your resume. This will help you catch the attention of an employer.

You will also gain strategies that will help you handle the challenging tasks you may face in class and on the job.

Whatever it is you need to prepare for success in the skilled trades, we can support you in gaining the base skills you will need.

For Current Apprentices

Adult Training and Skills Development organizations also help people who are currently working in a trade or registered as an apprentice but need a bit of extra support in areas such as math, communication, computer skills or soft skills.

As mentioned, we can also help you prepare to write your Certificate of Qualification (CofQ).

Who to Contact?

For more information you can contact any of the programs in your area.

City of Kawartha Lakes Programs
Haliburton Programs
Hastings Programs
Northumberland Programs
Peterborough Programs

You can also download a flyer:

KAWARTHA LAKES Flyer
HALIBURTON Flyer
HASTINGS Flyer
NORTHUMBERLAND Flyer
PETERBOROUGH Flyer

If you would like more information contact Carrie at or call (705) 313-4385.

Math and the Skilled Trades

In addition to the well-known trades of plumber, electrician and carpenter, the skilled trades also include hairdresser, baker, child and youth worker, educational assistant, roofer, heavy equipment operator, machinist and drywall finisher.

These are just a few of the 144 skilled trades in Ontario.

Although these trades are very different, they have one thing in common – they all need the people in the field to have some math skills.

To see a full list of the 144 skilled trades visit this Explore the Trades page. You can also learn more about the trades at the Apprentice Search website.

Math Skills Needed in the Trades

Below you will find a list of some of the math skills needed in the trades.

Complete measurements
- Distance, pressure, tolerances, temperatures, volume, quantities, perimeters
Assess angles
Read gauges
Read blueprints
Mix chemicals
Set prices
Complete estimates and invoices
Manage stock
Take orders
Set budgets
Track statistics

For a detailed list of the math skills needed in the trades, visit the foundations section of this Trades – Math document.

Don’t worry if it has been a while since you were in a math class or you have realized you are not familiar with everything on this list. Contact any of the free adult upgrading, and training programs for help.

Trades Assessment

Our adult training and upgrading programs offer assessments to help you pick the skills you need to focus on to get you where you want to go in the trades.

The federal government also has a free online self-assessment. It is called ‘Essential Skills Self-Assessment for the Trades‘.

The math section of this self-assessment will give you another list of the math skills needed in the trades.

This assessment includes measurement (metric / imperial), dimensions (area or volume), estimates (time, distance, volume or quantity), ratios and proportions (using scale drawings) and geometry (calculate slopes or elevation).

If you complete this assessment and feel like you might need assistance, contact an adult training program in your area. We can help with training or a math refresher.

Free Adult Training and Upgrading

Adult training and upgrading programs can help you develop the core math skills needed to work in any trade.

We make sure you have the base you need so you are ready to learn trade specific math once you are in an apprenticeship, training program or when you need to learn on-the-job.

Adult training and upgrading programs are for people who are:

thinking about working in a trade
working in a trade
registered as an apprentice
preparing for the Certificate of Qualification (CofQ) exam

We can help you pinpoint the skills you need to develop for the trade you are interested in, which means your training will be customized, short and focused.

Workbooks

There are free workbooks available online. Below you will find two available through the Canadian Government.

A free trades-math workbook:

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/jobs/training/initiatives/skills-success/tools/trades-math.html

A free Essential Skills workbook for the trades:

https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/programs/essential-skills/tools/wp-167-workbook.html
Construction Sector Council, Build On Your Talents: Using Trades Math: http://en.copian.ca/library/learning/csc/using_trades_math/using_trades_math.pdf

If you are working through these workbooks and find you have questions or would like some support, we can help.

Contact Us

$triangle, circle, measurements on purple background$ Contact any of our programs to find out how we can help you move successfully into a skilled trade or do well in your current apprenticeship.

For a list of services in the Haliburton, City of Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough, Northumberland and Hastings visit our programs page. Or contact Carrie Wakeford at or 705 313-4385.

To find a program in other areas of Ontario, visit the Learning Networks of Ontario website.

Digital Skills in the Skilled Trades

Tradespeople, employers and educators all agree that the most important emerging skill in the trades are digital skills. This was confirmed through research done by the Conference Board of Canada and Future Skills. For the details, see the report ‘Bridging Generational Divides: Advancing Digital Skills in Canada’s Apprenticeship and Skilled Trades Ecosystem’ (September 2020).

The demand for digital skills in the trades can be seen throughout Canada and around the world. The report identified that:

“Tradespeople will need seven core digital skills: technical, information management, digital communication, virtual collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving in digital environments.” (Bridging Generational Divides, Page 9)

Adult Training and Upgrading

Adult training and upgrading programs in Ontario, also known as Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS), have seen a growth in the demand for digital skills over the years. During the pandemic, we saw the need for digital literacy skills skyrocket as everything moved online. People needed digital skills to do everyday things such as apply for financial support, communicate with their doctor or get their kids online for school. For apprentices this meant having the skills to register online, complete training, and communicate with employers digitally.

Adult training and upgrading programs in Ontario responded to the increased need for digital literacy training by developing and offering additional online and in-person training programs, including Zoom training. We want to make sure people have the skills they need to succeed in meeting their career and educational goals, including individuals preparing to start an apprenticeship.

Pre- and Post-Apprenticeship Training Options

Adult training and upgrading programs support people who are thinking about entering the skilled trades, including those in pre-apprenticeship programs. Additionally, we offer help to those already registered as an apprentice but who need a bit of extra support with things such as digital literacy, math and communication skills. We are also known for being able to help people prepare for success with their Certificate of Qualification (C of Q) exams.

We can also support those currently in a trade, but who might be thinking about leaving because they don’t have the core skills they need for success at the moment. With a little help, they can succeed. In this way, LBS programs can help with retention in the trades which will go a long way in improving the completion rates.

Digital Technology in the Trades: Examples

The “Bridging Generational Divides” report identifies areas where digital technology is being used in the automotive, manufacturing and food service industries, but their findings can be applied to all trades. For example, the need for computers, tablets, smartphones, apps, and handheld devices is found in all the trades to some degree.

The paper captured many examples of the growing need for digital skills in the trades, including:

installing and operating machines and equipment
using diagnostic and monitoring tools
programming
reading digital blueprints
completing quality control
digital measurement
communicating and sharing information with customers, trainers and other trades people (e.g. email, text, Microsoft Teams and Zoom)
receiving online work orders, and product and service orders from customers
placing orders for parts and supplies
invoicing.

Finally, there is a need for information management skills, including accessing forums for troubleshooting support and for finding information, manuals and training online.

In the ‘Bridging Generational Divides’ report you will find Table 1 ‘Impact of digitalization on the trades‘ which includes a list of ‘Skills needed to adapt to future work trends’.

An EdCan Network article ‘Skilled Trades in the Digital Age‘ provides even more examples of digital skills and tools in the trades. It includes GPS-guided excavation on construction sites and in resource extraction, accessing information on tablets, such as schematic drawings, as well as scheduling and invoicing software. It provides an example were technology can be found in equipment including heavy haulers.

They “have a tremendous number of sensors that collect data about everything from how hard the equipment is hitting bumps, to how inflated the tires are and where the bumps are located so the road can actually be fixed.”

Generational Divide

The need for digital skills is an significant development in the trades. It is made even more significant because it is being embraced at different rates. The “Bridging Generational Divides” study found that apprentices may be more open to using digital technology than a journeyperson.

For example, one of the challenges going forward will be the apprentices’ preference for text and email and a journeypersons’ preference for in person and phone discussions.

Training

There is a need for strong foundational skills in digital literacy for those considering a career in the skilled trades; however, there is also a need to support those already in the trades. For example, LBS can help to provide training to address the intergenerational communication differences identified in the report, such as email and text communication.

In our programs, we begin by measuring the individuals’ current skills so we can work with them to design a customized training program that will help them build on their current computer, communication and math skills. Some people come in for a refresher while others are looking to develop new skills. We create an individual plan that fits their needs and schedule including offering one-on-one, group or online training.

What was also clear in the report was the clear link between soft skills and digital skills. This includes communication, collaboration, creativity, critical thinking and problem solving. LBS programs have been recognized over the years for providing the opportunity to develop these soft skills which further prepares people for work in the trades.

Adult training and upgrading programs provide the base skills so that people in the trades have the foundation and confidence needed to learn the digital tools and software specific to their industry.

Recommendations

The ‘Bridging Generational Divides’ report concludes with a list of next steps for addressing labour and digital skills shortages. They include recommendations for employers, tradespeople, training providers, unions, and governments. To see the list of recommendations, visit page 27 of the report.

Contact Us

We recommend reaching out to any of our adult training programs located throughout Ontario to ask how we can help support the development of foundational digital literacy skills needed in all jobs, including the skilled trades.

For a list of services in the LOCS region, including Haliburton, City of Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough, Northumberland and Hastings, visit our programs page or contact Carrie Wakeford at .

To find a program in other areas of Ontario visit the Learning Networks of Ontario website for help finding a program in your region.

You can learn more about digital skills and the skilled trades in the blog post Computers and the Skilled Trades.