PREP Academy creating pathways for African Nova Scotian youth and supporting the province’s skilled trades sector
Across Nova Scotia, the demand for skilled trades professionals continues to grow. From residential construction and manufacturing to clean energy and infrastructure, employers are facing an ongoing challenge: finding enough skilled workers to meet the needs of today while preparing for tomorrow.
Addressing this challenge requires more than recruitment. It means creating pathways that allow more young people to see themselves in skilled trades careers, access meaningful opportunities, and receive the support needed to succeed.
For many African Nova Scotian youth, those pathways have not always been visible or accessible. While interest and talent are abundant in our community, systemic barriers, limited exposure to career options, and a lack of representation within the trades have contributed to lower participation in apprenticeship and certification pathways.
Expanding the future workforce means ensuring those barriers are addressed.
The African Nova Scotian Skilled Trades Strategy was created to help do exactly that. Supported through funding from the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency and the Province of Nova Scotia, the strategy brings together The PREP Academy, educators, families, employers, industry, and community organizations to expand access to skilled trades pathways and support long-term success for African Nova Scotians in the industry.
The approach recognizes that career development does not begin when someone applies for an apprenticeship. It starts much earlier, with awareness, exposure, mentorship, and trusted relationships that help young people explore possibilities and make informed decisions about their futures.
Youth benefit from guidance as they navigate education and career pathways. Families gain a better understanding of the opportunities available within the trades. Employers and industry partners have opportunities to connect with emerging talent while helping shape a workforce that reflects the diversity of Nova Scotia’s communities.
Success also depends on collaboration.
Schools, training providers, employers, unions, community organizations, and government all have an important role to play in creating a stronger workforce. When these partners work together, young people receive more consistent support, employers gain access to a broader talent pipeline, and communities benefit from increased economic participation and long-term career success.
This collaborative approach also helps strengthen workforce retention. Youth who receive mentorship, culturally responsive support, and opportunities to build meaningful industry connections are better positioned to complete training, persist through apprenticeship, and build rewarding careers in the trades.
As the skilled trades continue to evolve, so too must the way talent is developed. Investing in young people, creating inclusive pathways, and strengthening partnerships across sectors will help build a workforce that is not only larger, but more resilient, innovative, and representative of the communities it serves.
The future of skilled trades in Nova Scotia depends on the decisions made today. By creating more equitable pathways into these careers, we can strengthen the province’s workforce while ensuring the next generation has every opportunity to contribute, succeed, and help build the future.
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