Northumberland will host one of Ontario’s Level Up! Skilled Trades Career Fairs as the province looks to encourage more young people to explore careers in the skilled trades.
The Ontario government announced this week that the annual fairs will return for a fifth year, with events planned in 12 communities across the province between September and December.
The event in Cobourg is scheduled for September 23 and 24, while Oshawa will host a three day fair from December 1 to 3.
The fairs are aimed primarily at students in Grades 7 through 12, though parents, educators and jobseekers are also invited to attend public open house sessions.
According to the province, the events will feature hands on exhibits, demonstrations and opportunities to connect directly with employers, unions and training providers representing Ontario’s 144 skilled trades.
The government says Ontario is expected to need an additional 400,000 skilled trades workers over the next decade as infrastructure projects continue and a large portion of the current workforce approaches retirement.
Labour Minister David Piccini says the fairs are intended to help students and jobseekers explore career opportunities while learning more about apprenticeships and training pathways.
The province says more than 58,000 people attended Level Up! events last year, with total attendance expected to surpass 200,000 by the end of 2026.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
