ASTEP

ASTEP was created to facilitate the recruitment of Aboriginal workers into the construction industry labour force by assisting individuals to identify and pursue rewarding and meaningful careers in the skilled trades. The initiative heightens awareness of a career path that will provide nationwide accredited employment credentials to participants, and provide continuing and sustainable employment opportunities for Aboriginal peoples.

This initiative serves to address the forecasted skilled trade shortages for our members and the BC construction industry, by focusing on an existing underrepresented labour force in construction. The project goal is to increase employment opportunities for Aboriginal workers in the construction trades, by creating innovative approaches to partnering between industries, service organization, Aboriginal governance groups, Tribal councils, and Elder groups.

ASTEP develops relationships with Aboriginal workers, service agencies, Aboriginal governance groups, Elder groups and Tribal councils encouraging the involvement and collaboration of respective Chief and Council, and Elder Committees. The direct involvement of the Chiefs and Elders assist in the alignment of the goals of ASTEP and the goals of their community.

The methodology behind ASTEP is the “Connector Model” which utilizes the Trades Employment Specialist or TES. The TES is a certified Trades person; they assists individuals who are interested in the skilled trades by identifying skill levels which in turn aids the TES in recommending the proper employment path for each individual. If training is needed the TES works closely with each individual along their advancement path until they are ready for employment placement. TESs ensure that workers are job ready to get them working as soon as possible while employers get the workers they need now.

A critical component of the “Connector Model” is the direct connection the TES has with BCCA members and construction employers in general. The TES is continually cultivating relationships with potential employers to connect them with new employees. Once the connection has been made the TES continues to work as a liaison between the Employer and the Employee to assure a successful match, and to address any potential issues along the way.