The Saskatoon Industry-Education Council (SIEC) is a partnership between three local school divisions (Saskatoon Public, Saskatoon Catholic and Prairie Spirit School Divisions) and regional business/industry. The Summer Youth Internship program is a project that the SIEC is pleased to deliver to Grade 11 and 12 students in our 30 schools again this year. This program, now in its eighth year, provides youth with summer employment and a look at the trades at the same time. Last year we had 82 students in the program working with 54 companies. Through applications and interviews, employers are able to choose your candidate. Many are returning this year to their previous employers as well as obtained some part-time work during the school term. The internship starts on July 9, 2012 depending upon safety course completion and ends on August 17, 2012 (alternate dates can be arranged if necessary).
Students are given the CSTS (Construction Safety Training System) and also Fall Protection Safety Certifications free of charge to the students. They are then are paired with a Job Coach to work with both the students and the employer. Students enrolled in high school may also apply to take two high school credit Apprenticeship courses during the 6 week placement which would apply to high school graduation credits.
Here is what employers/students have to say about the program:
“This program is beneficial because it restores my faith in the future of the workforce. These young people showed work ethic second to none.
They showed up early for work and ready to do whatever tasks were given to them. They can take great pride in a job well done.”
Brent Scutchings – HR Coordinator, Coram Construction
“The SYIP program is very beneficial for both the student and the employer. It assists the student in making a career decision through “hands-on” experiences.
At the same time the employer has the opportunity to grow their workforce with young, energetic people that want to be in the trades.”
Darren McConnell-President, Humboldt Electric
“I knew this is where I wanted to be…in the trades. This makes it real for me and after I graduate from high school, I now know that I want to be a carpenter.
Thank you for the opportunity.” Joel – student