Skills Work!® in Partnership

“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.”

                                                                                                  -- George B. Shaw

While it is often taken for granted, one of the most difficult tasks in the world is actually transmitting an idea from one person’s head into someone else’s.  Technology can help with this action, but nothing beats face-to-face meetings – everything else is a substitute, it is not something better. 

One of the great strengths of Skills Canada - Ontario is its team of Liaison Officers spread out across the province.  This dedicated group of young people spend their working days visiting schools, talking with teachers, talking with students and making presentations.  They are the vanguard out in front, providing students with awareness of the virtual limitless possibilities of a career path in skilled trades and technologies.

The Ontario Mining Association has been an active partner with Skills Canada - Ontario for more than five years.  Celebrating its 90^th anniversary this year, the OMA is one of the longest serving trade organizations in the country. We represent companies engaged in the responsible exploration, extraction and processing of Ontario’s mineral resources. 

Like other sectors, mining foresees a future demand for technologically smart and skilled people.  The flip side of this need for industry is boundless opportunity for young people embarking on training for future employment. 

The OMA is proud to be a financial supporter of Skills Canada – Ontario.   We believe in the mandate of Skills Canada - Ontario to promote careers in skilled trades and technologies as viable, first choice employment options for young people.  However, in some ways being a partner with an educational organization is like being a member of a health club – the more you use it, the more you get out of it.

With this in mind, along with its financial support, the OMA contributes to many aspects of Skills Canada – Ontario:

• The “Skills Work!^® What’s Out There?” in-school presentation program
• The Skills Work!^® career profile publication
• Exhibits and activities at the Ontario Technological Skills Competition,
• The Cardboard Boat Races
• Promotes general awareness of the need for technological skills, particularly in mining involvement.

More than 600,000 students benefit from the programs and activities of Skills Canada - Ontario facilitates every year, and the OMA is committed to build on this partnership.

Do you think you know mining?  You might be surprised.