MCSC’s Northpine programming celebrates its first cohort of grads and other important milestones
Job Readiness grads from our Northpine Framer and Drywall course receive their certificates in late-February at Purpose Construction (765 Main Street, Winnipeg, MB). The graduates moved onto their safety training with Construction Safety Association of Manitoba (CSAM) for one week, followed by hands-on training in their designated fields. There were plenty of smiles and laughs as participants enjoyed the day and progressed another step in their construction careers.
MCSC has been granted $1.39 million in funding from the Northpine Foundation to train and employ 180 individuals who are receiving Employment and Income Assistance over. The intent will be to train selected candidates for entry into in-demand trades in the construction sector.
Recruitment began in November and since that time, we have moved more than 300 people through the recruitment process. Working in partnership with the Province of Manitoba, more than 80 job-ready and vetted candidates have been referred by the EIA program Jobs on Market.
The first cohort consisting of 64 trainees in three trades began instruction in February 2025. Trades include framing, drywalling and scaffolding. Instruction for framing and drywalling are being delivered by Purpose Construction. The scaffolding instruction is being delivered by United Brotherhood of Carpenters.
In order to support strong work skills, each course begins with MCSC’s 3-week Job Readiness curriculum. Trainees who have demonstrated strong punctuality, attendance and engagement are invited to continue to safety and technical training. Currently 46 trainees are moving into technical training.
Each trade has its own Employer Advisory Group. MCSC is currently working with industry to move graduates into employment. Currently one qualified trainee has moved out of training as he has been offered employment.
Recruitment continues for the next phase of the program which will see the following classes delivered:
- Painting (March 3 to April 11) – 15 trainees
- Exterior Insulation Finishing Systems / Stucco (April 17 to June 13) – 15 trainees
- Framing (May 12 to August 29) – 15 trainees
MCSC will be monitoring the employment status of each trainee for 12 months following graduation and into employment. Our commitment under this funding agreement is to ensure a minimum 70% employment of graduates.
