Expanding Skilled Trades Employment Pathways for Youth from Care

Northpine Foundation has invested in Construct’s pre-apprenticeship program to help youth from care move into stable work or post-secondary education in the skilled trades. The program responds to a difficult labour market for young people while opening a pathway into an industry facing long-term worker shortages.
Construct’s model combines trades training, safety certifications, hands-on experience, and wraparound supports like food, transportation, and employment coaching. It is designed to meet the needs of care-experienced youth, who often transition into adulthood without the support networks many peers rely on.
The initiative will engage youth, supporting them to complete the program and move into full-time employment or education within six months. This investment builds on a proven model and adds tailored supports, including peer mentorship from graduates with child welfare experience.