Story submitted by Jamie Puddicombe, Manager, Skills, Training and Economic Development
Over the last ten years, St. Lawrence College has built an excellent relationship with the Correctional Service of Canada through the delivery of vocational training programs for their soon-to-be released populations. We are excited to be continuing with face-to-face training this fall at various regional institutions.
This partnership is managed and delivered through SLC’s Department of Innovation and Business Engagement and is an initiative of CORCAN, a department within the Correctional Service of Canada that focuses on employment and employability. Starting this fall, the College will deliver a variety of short duration programs that focus on Carpentry, Horticulture, Construction, Entrepreneurship, Safety, Heavy Equipment Operation, and Small Engine Repair/ Maintenance. With a shortened delivery window, we will still aim for over 60 program deliveries with a potential of over 500 participants (dependent on class size safety regulations) by March 2022.
The students are anxiously waiting for a resumption of in-person training programs, as many of the programs focus on hands-on skills development. The programs provide the students with a variety of credentials from the College both preparing their skill base and their resume for new opportunities. As we continue to grow this relationship with the Correctional Service of Canada, we look forward to finding new and innovative ways to bring learning to vulnerable populations.
For more updates and information, please contact Jamie Puddicombe at JPuddicombe@sl.on.ca.