Apprenticeship Support Project

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 16/07/2022 (1188 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

First Peoples Development Inc. (FPDI) is a Winnipeg-based organization that positively affects the Manitoba employment sector.

Since 2006, they’ve managed and administered the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) program in the province. In doing so, FPDI continues to assist countless individuals to pursue their employment dreams. Their unique facilitation process also helps employers fill crucial positions.

Essentially, FPDI serves as a conduit between Manitoba’s educational institutions, employers and future employees. Programs that they have successfully worked to promote range from nursing, construction, daycare, red-seal apprenticeships and even drone operation.

In an age where employers struggle to find well-trained employees, the organization serves a vital role in our province. Funded by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), FPDI works with 30 different Indigenous groups to provide access to training, career exploration, job start-ups, upskilling and other wrap around services. Successful outcomes benefit all Manitobans.

And there are countless success stories to be heard. Consider heavy equipment operator and truck driver Andrea Bruyere’s FPDI experience.

Bruyere contacted FPDI because she saw an ad promoting a partnership offering class 1 training. A few conversations and tests later, FPDI and First Class Training Centre partnered to help Bruyere achieve her end goal of becoming a heavy equipment operator and truck driver.

Recalling the moment Bruyere passed her road test, she said “it was the greatest feeling in the world!” And when she earned her license, Bruyere “was ecstatic,” she said.

For students wishing to navigate preparation for their future work life or additional upskilling, choices can be overwhelming. And in many cases, there are barriers to entry. FPDI understands this well. To fill these potential gaps, they often assist students with wrap around services, such as safety equipment. Many would not be able to complete education and training without FPDI’s assistance.

Assistance is also offered to companies. Partnerships with many local companies, helps them find the qualified employees. Limited time and funds — necessary to the hiring process — is a core issue for medium to small businesses.

A recent venture that FPDI has announced is a program to support small and medium-sized local businesses who offer red seal apprenticeships. As with everything FPDI does, the end goal is to help Manitobans seal a better future!

Did you know FPDI:

• Has partnered on over 750 programs, with 349 educational institutions and worked with 31,793 students.

• Offers travel assistance, job startup and other wrap-around services to help students meet their goals.

• Is nationally recognized by ESDC as having an optimal capacity management and accountability framework.

www.fpdinc.ca

(204) 987-9570