Solar construction jobs spark new Kingston training program
Ottawa Construction News staff writer
The Kingston Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO) has issued a news release to announce it is working with Local 249 Carpenters’ Union on a new training program to support construction needs on solar farm projects across Eastern Ontario.
Increased activity is scheduled to begin in mid to late June, with the majority of work happening in and around Kingston KEDCO said in the news release The Carpenters District Council of Ontario (CDCO) is responsible for providing labour for the projects and they anticipate more than 100 full time positions over the next several months, with full-time work into 2016.
The CDCO and Local 249 Kingston provide free (unpaid) training sessions for those interested, after which individuals are eligible to work. They will accept students who can work full-time during the summer months, as well as those who are seeking full-time regular employment.
“This is a great opportunity for new-comers seeking Canadian experience in construction, new-graduates looking for hands-on field work or summer students who require full-time work,” says Carey Bidtnes, human resources and labour market specialist with KEDCO. “The CDCO representative has indicated that a variety of skill sets are needed from general construction, scaffolding and bus-driving to machine operators. In addition, those with engineering, quality control and other specialized skills are often moved into more technical roles by the sub-contractors.”
The CDCO and Kingston Local 249 is holding free one-day training sessions for prospective employees, which includes WHMIS, fall arrest and orientation. Workers should be able to work outdoors, lift up to 18 kilograms (40 pounds), and be at least 18 years of age. In order to be hired, a prospective employee must complete the training, meet the physical and age requirements of the job, and join the Carpenters’ Union.
“The interest in the project has been tremendous, and the first training session scheduled for 9:00 am on Monday, June 2 is full,” KEDCO said in its announcement. “Additional training sessions will be scheduled and interested individuals should register online for inclusion in future sessions at http://tinyurl.com/local249training.”
Anchor Concrete Products announces executive appointments
Jeff Bradfield, chief executive officer of Kingston-based Anchor Concrete Products Limited and Anchor Rebar Supply Inc. has announced the promotion of John Tait, Roy Baron and Jude Tremblay. “These promotions are an integral component of the Anchor Growth Plan that will ensure the companies continue to meet the needs of their increasing customer bases and varied product lines,” the company said in a news release.
John Tait has been named as president of Anchor Concrete and Anchor Rebar. He most recently served as general manager and started at the company as controller in 2002. “Through his education as a Certified General Accountant and his work at Anchor, John has gained a variety of skills necessary to oversee the complete operations of both Anchor Concrete and Anchor Rebar. John’s diverse skill set and strengths in accounting will continue to help Anchor deliver superior customer service and product quality at cost competitive pricing.”
Roy Baron has been named vice-president finance. The announcement said he began his career at Anchor in 2008 as controller bringing with him over 35 years of accounting experience. “His skills in financial management have been vital to the continued operation of Anchor Concrete and Anchor Rebar. Going forward, Roy will be focusing his talents on strategic financial planning, business relationship development and he will also play a key role in providing financial advice regarding future investments in Anchor’s growth plan.”
Jude Tremblay started his career at Anchor in 2013 as sales and marketing manager bringing with him over 20 years of experience in the construction industry. His “commitment to satisfy the customer makes him a natural fit for his new position as vice=president customer service where he will oversee the engineering, shipping and sales departments.” He is a professional engineer.
