Canada faces a growing shortage of skilled trades workers which is having a significant impact on the construction industry. It is predicted that approximately 250,000 construction workers will be required in the next decade, more than double the number of individuals expected to seek a career in the trades.
As a company committed to supporting trades training and investing in the future of our industry, Concert has raised funds to support trades training programs for the last 20 years. As in past years, Concert recently hosted a themed golf tournament in Vancouver and Toronto. On two sunny September days, Concert staff and industry partners came together to raise in excess of $350,000 during a “Survivor” themed tournament.
Funds contributed by Concert over the last 20 years have gone to various trades training programs in BC and Ontario. This year, funds were specifically raised in support of four great organizations: George Brown College (ON); Hammer Heads (ON); Camosun College (BC); and BCIT (BC).
George Brown College offers students hands-on training and real-world experience. In 2017, we established the Concert Properties & Partners Award to support the Construction Trades Techniques program.
Created by the Central Ontario Building Trades in 2009, the Hammer Heads program aims to support at-risk youth by providing skills and employment-based training in the construction industry. Concert has contributed in support of their 12-week boot camp program.
Concert began its relationship with Camosun with an initial contribution in support of the Women in Trades initiative. Since then, over 40 women have received funding to assist with tuition, textbooks, childcare, living expenses and safety equipment costs.
And Concert has a long-standing relationship with BCIT. More than 1,600 students – including 1,300 successful graduates – have benefited from our endowment awards.
“Thanks in large part to the generous support of our partner trades, consultants and suppliers, this year’s golf tournament raised a tremendous amount – bringing our total support of trades training programs across the country to more than $3.3 million,” says Brian McCauley, Concert’s President & Chief Executive Officer. “In addition to the good accomplished, this tournament is always great fun for all involved.”
Participants golfed their way through various survivor challenges including a giant sling shot, tribal council trivia, and even ate crickets as part of a Survivor-style food eating competition. Thank you to our generous 2018 sponsors!
