August 4, 2014 – Winnipeg, Manitoba – Employment and Social Development Canada
The Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Employment and Social Development, and Joyce Bateman, Member of Parliament for Winnipeg South Centre, met today with Mr. Vic Gerden, CEO of WestCanitest R&D (WestCaRD) and Mr. Ken Webb, Executive Director of Manitoba Aerospace, to discuss the Government of Canada’s actions to ensure Canadians have the skills in demand in today’s economy. Minister Kenney, MP Bateman, Mr. Gerden and Mr. Webb were touring the GE Aviation Engine Testing Research & Development Centre in Winnipeg.
More than 50 percent of employment in Canada’s aerospace industry is comprised of occupations in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Minister Kenney highlighted the importance of encouraging Canadians to pursue careers in high-demand STEM occupations to help ensure their own success, as well as the continued growth of key industries, such as aerospace.
He noted several supports provided by the Government, including $40 million over two years, announced by Prime Minister Stephen Harper in May 2014, to support up to 3,000 paid internships for post-secondary graduates in high-demand fields. The Government is also taking steps to provide more information to youth on the job prospects and benefits of working in the skilled trades and STEM occupations.
The Government of Canada is taking action to help Canadians connect with jobs through a variety of initiatives outlined in its Economic Action Plan. These include introducing the Canada Job Grant, the Canada Apprentice Loan and apprenticeship grants.
Alexandra Fortier
Office of Minister Kenney
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Employment and Social Development Canada
819-994-5559
media@hrsdc-rhdcc.gc.ca
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