Support of Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship Industry Scholarship Remains Strong

Released on December 15, 2014

Saskatchewan youth are motivated to enter into the skilled trades due to the many rewarding career options available to them and can be supported by scholarships made possible by donations from industry and matching support from the Government of Saskatchewan.

Between April of 2013 and June of 2014, eight industry organizations donated a total of $92,000 to the Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship (SYA) Industry Scholarship.  This generous support provides opportunities for youth who have graduated from the SYA Program and enter into apprenticeship in one of the 49 designated trades and 20 subtrades.

“SYA Industry Scholarships encourage young people to enter the skilled trades and become apprentices,” Saskatchewan Apprenticeship Board Chair Garry Kot said.  “Donating to the scholarship program is one of many ways industry gives back to apprenticeship and trade certification and helps grow the next generation of skilled workers.”

Since the program was initiated in 2009 by the SATCC, the Saskatchewan Construction Association and industry partners, 42 organizations have donated $622,000.

The Government of Saskatchewan, through the Saskatchewan Innovation and Opportunity Scholarship also contributes to the program through matching donations.

“Partnerships between government and industry are vital to the growth of Saskatchewan’s economy,” Minister responsible for Immigration, Jobs, Skills and Training Jeremy Harrison said.  “Together, we are pleased to support youth as they enter into rewarding careers in the skilled trades.”
 
In 2013-14, Construction Labour Relations of Saskatchewan donated $50,000.  The Canada West Equipment Dealers Association contributed $20,000 for their second donation.  The Saskatchewan Construction Association raised an additional $10,000 this year, bringing their total contributions to $40,000.

The Canadian Welding Association – Regina Chapter, Ensign Energy Services, and Wright Construction each donated $10,000 to the scholarships, while Aim Electric and Highlander Crane contributed $1,000 each.

In 2014, 103 scholarships valued at $1,000 each were awarded to eligible high school graduates who completed the SYA program.  The SYA Program encourages high school students to explore career opportunities in the skilled trades by providing awareness, research and hands-on experience.

Employers and industry associations interested in contributing to the SYA Industry Scholarship Program are encouraged to contact the SATCC at 1-877-363-0536.

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For more information, contact:

Julie Woldu
Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0187
Email: julie.woldu@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-537-4692