New initiative aims to put youth in the driver's seat

The provincial government announced a new program aimed at giving young Islanders an avenue into the trucking industry.

Team Youth Trucking developed out of a partnership between the province and the P.E.I. Trucking Sector Council.

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"We've been taking a look at new ways to bring people to the industry," said Brian Oulton, executive director of the P.E.I. Trucking Sector Council.

He said this program has space for 15 students and that no experience is required to apply.

'Strong work experiences'

Oulton said the jobs available are full-time positions for 10 weeks throughout the summer.

"This program is innovative in that we actually are going to have placements that are going to actually give students strong work experiences," he said.

"As opposed to just doing menial tasks we're going to be able to take them in and put them into meaningful work."

Participants will have the opportunity to learn different aspects of the industry, from dispatching to mechanics.

Worker shortage

Minister of Workforce and Advanced Learning Sonny Gallant said that the program was spurred on by discussions he had with members of the trucking industry.

"If there is a shortfall in some employment areas then we try to match up employees with employers," he said.

Gallant said that by giving youth the chance, some may find a career in the trucking sector at a young age.

"Well it's a good opportunity for Island youth to get experience in the trucking industry and see what opportunities are available in that industry."

'The right direction'

Stephen Arsenault, secretary-treasurer at AJL Contractors said that the program will allow young Islanders to try different jobs within the industry.

"It's a good occasion to try and get some of the younger people involved and if they're not sure of exactly what they want to do in life this gives them a chance to see if it's for them," he said.

"It's in the right direction."

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