Panel

Ogwehoweh Skills and Trades Training Centre (OSTTC) has spent the past decade cultivating strategic partnerships with key industry leaders, particularly in the unionized trades sector, to create life-changing career opportunities for Indigenous students. Through these partnerships, we have developed robust pathways that support our students’ professional growth and foster meaningful, long-term relationships with employers who recognize the value and unique skillsets of our graduates.

Our partnerships began with simple initiatives, such as facility tours and participation in local job fairs. Over time, they evolved into a sophisticated network of collaboration, involving five major unions and several non-union employers. Among our valued partners are the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers Local 128, the International Brotherhood of Ironworkers Local 736, the United Association of Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 67, the Ontario Council of Millwrights Local 1916, and Labourers’ International Union of North America Local 837. These organizations have provided vital opportunities for our Welding Techniques and Metal Fabrication graduates to transition seamlessly from training into rewarding careers.

Central to this success is our innovative WRITE (Work Ready Indigenous Training Experience) program, which serves as a bridge between our students and employers. This program allows both students and industry representatives to meet, collaborate, and train before formal employment begins. Students gain critical hands-on experience, and employers witness their potential firsthand. This mutually beneficial arrangement helps break down barriers, address misconceptions, and reinforce the pride and accomplishments of our Indigenous students.

At the National Indigenous Education Symposium, OSTTC seeks to share our experiences in building and nurturing these partnerships, highlighting how they have improved employment outcomes for graduates and contributed to the sustainability of our training programs. We will discuss how these relationships were organically developed and offer insights on best practices for institutions seeking similar connections with industry partners.

By showcasing our successes and lessons learned, we aim to inspire other Indigenous training organizations to pursue strategic partnerships that align with their values and the aspirations of their students.