Construction careers camp set to inspire Gatineau residents

Tashi Farmilo

The Construction Careers Camp, an initiative aimed at attracting new talent to the construction industry, was in Gatineau on the 26th and 27th of October. The event, organised by the Association de la construction du Québec (ACQ) in collaboration with the Quebec government, offered an opportunity for participants to gain hands-on experience in various trades and explore potential career paths within the construction sector.

The camp, which was free of charge, invited individuals aged 15 and above who are interested in learning about the construction industry or seeking a career change. Participants had the chance to try their hand at several construction professions, including carpentry, masonry, plastering, operating machinery, and electrical work. All necessary equipment, including safety gear and meals, was provided to attendees.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to address labour shortages in Quebec's construction industry, which requires an estimated 17,000 new workers annually. By offering practical, hands-on training, the camp aimed to attract underrepresented groups such as women, Indigenous communities, youth, and those considering a career transition.

The Gatineau event was one of several stops on the Construction Careers Camp tour, which includes visits to cities across Quebec, such as Sept-Îles, Pessamit, Jonquière, and Trois-Rivières. The tour, supported by a $1.3 million investment from the Quebec government, continues through the fall and early winter, with upcoming events planned in Laval, Montreal, and Sherbrooke.

The camp not only provided a gateway into the construction industry but also a chance to experience a day in the life of a construction professional, offering valuable insights and skills that can lead to long-term career opportunities. For more information, visit the ACQ’s official website: https://www.acq.org/campconstruction/