Lambton College has added a new plumbing program to help address the shortage of skilled trades.
Mechanical Techniques - Plumbing graduates will get an understanding of the theoretical and practical aspects of the trade.
Associate Dean of Technology and Trades Joel Van Bynen said the only path into a trade is through an apprenticeship, which can be harder for some than others.
"So, the pathway to apprenticeship is normally that a student will approach an employer and convince them that they are worthy of signing them up as apprentices. Unfortunately, that's not the easiest thing to do, especially not in today's environment where employers are looking for experience."
The one-year Ontario College Certificate program is designed to cover the Level I in-school curriculum for the Plumbing Apprenticeship.
Van Bynen said the program is the perfect way for a student to get exposed to the trade and get connected with an employer.
"Sometimes students need an opportunity to upscale a little bit and get some hands-on experience -- get familiar with the tools and techniques and the lingo and the trade."
Van Bynen said at the moment, there's a shortage of nearly every trade you can think of across Ontario and the country.
"There's never been a better time for any student considering a trade to sign up for either some instruction now, or to try and get involved with employer groups or get an apprenticeship. There's a huge need, especially in the Sarnia-Lambton region, for plumbers, pipe fitters, as well as many other trades."
Applications for the program are now open for September. Click here for more information.
With files from Josh Boyce