SkillSource, launched in British Columbia in 2014, is an innovative new service that matches job-ready apprentices with host employers. The service allows apprentices to complete the full scope of a trade and gives employers the flexibility to engage apprentices on an on-demand basis.  SkillSource provides full support to apprentices from registration to certification and to host employers, including recruitment, pre-screening of candidates, transferable skills identification, reference checks, safety certification and registration of the apprentices with the Industry Training Authority. SkillSource is a sponsor on behalf of the employer as well as administration and coordination with ITA and training providers, provision of payroll and benefits and Worker's Compensation coverage. The host employer provides relevant work experience and supervision to the apprentice and the apprentice receives improved exposure to full trade scope through worksite and employer rotation. This new approach ensures more apprentices secure the support they require from host employers for the duration of their apprenticeship; providing greater exposure to full scope of trade, and increasing completion rates, particularly for youth. It also helps remove the administrative burden employers face when wanting to take on apprentices for varied durations and provides a flexible and skilled workforce for short or long term work experience.

Further information can be found at www.skillsourcebc.ca.  Feel free to contact Doug Maclaren, CEO at dmaclaren@skillsourcebc.ca.