Epic Jobs, an annual event that introduces almost 2,000 area students to the skilled trades, has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Running at two locations – the Wayne Gretzky Sport Centre and the Sanderson Centre – Epic Jobs in its 4th year, features high profile industry speakers and around 50 exhibitor booths ranging from major local companies such as Tigercat, Brantford Power and Stelco to various community organizations, training centres and colleges such as Conestoga College who recently invested in its school of trades.
The event has been widely supported by the community in its mission of getting young people into the trades. Skilled trades shortages have been a growing issue in Grand Erie for some time.
Planning partners, which include the public and Catholic school boards, are currently meeting with digital experts to explore a virtual version of Epic Jobs for 2020 to be presented online.
Sponsors and exhibitors who registered for the 2020 event can each expect to hear from the planning committee soon with more details.
Epic Jobs is currently forging ahead as a live event for 2021 in its pursuit of engaging our youth – the future workforce – with skilled trades. There are new initiatives planned around the trades for 2021 contributing to a strong framework for Epic Jobs.
Any parties who have questions, comments or feedback are welcome to contact The Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie: epicjobs@workforceplanningboard.org / danette@workforceplanningboard.org
*The COVID-19 crisis has made significant impacts in Grand Erie and around the world on business, livelihoods, and jobs. The Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie is working with our community partners to generate a picture of how the crisis has impacted jobs, industry and families in our region in order to inform local-level responses.
