PORT ALBERNI – Chris Walkus wasn’t sure he could be successful in the North Island College Employment Transition and Construction Labourer program saying, “I had low self-esteem.”
Walkus, the proud dad of a one-year-old girl, has not missed a single day of the program that helps students with disabilities acquire entry-level skills for construction labourers. Joining Walkus in the classroom is fellow student Cody Stewart. Stewart lists some of what he knows how to build by being in the program, “… sheds… chicken coops… stairs… tool boxes.” Stewart has gained basic construction skills to complete these projects through classroom work and job placement.
The program also helps students gain qualifications that will help them find success at the job site and support their families at home. “I passed the learners driving exam the first time,” says Walkus. “It was one of my proudest days. I have also obtained my fork lift ticket. That’s a huge success in my book.”
Stewart says he has learned budgeting and nutritional literacy, noting that his favourite recipe is jambalaya. He is looking forward to taking a class that will show students how to purchase their first car.
North Island College instructor Mark Price says all of his students are thriving in their work placements with Port Alberni contractors and businesses. “Without a doubt, many will be hired by their host employers,” he says.
Price says hands-on, practical learning opportunities give students marketable skills, self-confidence and an understanding of what the workplace expects of them. He says half the current class is looking to enter trades foundation classes. “The ultimate goal of the program is ensuring students enjoy healthy living and gainful employment.”
The program has helped Stewart succeed. “My work practicum is building residential homes and I have to be onsite at 7 a.m. I’m really enjoying it.”
Stewart is currently upgrading his math skills and plans to enter a foundation carpentry program. Walkus says now that he has completed the program, “I will be able to support my family in ways I could only have dreamed of before.”
North Island College received one-time funding of $75,000 through B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint in 2014 for the Employment Transition and Construction Labourer program. Through Blueprint, government is aligning training funding to in-demand jobs.
