The ACCA-TCBN Skilled Trades Development Fund (SDF) program is a comprehensive and transformative initiative established through a partnership between the Afro-Canadian Contractors Association (ACCA) and the Toronto Community Benefits Network (TCBN). This program is thoughtfully designed to deliver in-depth, specialized training tailored to equip job seekers with the skills, knowledge, and qualifications needed to thrive in the skilled trades industry. Its core mission is to create robust, sustainable pathways to long-term, meaningful employment for groups historically underrepresented in skilled trades, including youth (high school graduates and early-stage postsecondary students), women, Indigenous peoples, and racialized individuals.
Central to the ACCA-TCBN SDF program is its commitment to providing an inclusive training environment that acknowledges and addresses the unique challenges these groups face. Through carefully curated, targeted training modules and individualized support services, participants gain hands-on experience, technical expertise, and relevant certifications that align with current industry standards and employer expectations. By embedding these elements within the program’s framework, the SDF initiative not only enhances technical proficiency but also instills confidence and readiness among trainees to excel in competitive roles within the skilled trades.
Additionally, the program emphasizes dismantling the longstanding barriers that have limited access for Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC) individuals within the sector. This targeted approach ensures that each trainee receives tailored support, from mentorship and career guidance to networking opportunities with industry leaders and potential employers. As a result, participants are well-positioned to overcome structural inequalities that have historically restricted their entry into skilled trades roles.
Through its dual commitment to social equity and workforce development, the ACCA-TCBN SDF program contributes to addressing the structural marginalization faced by BIPOC individuals within the trades. It aspires not only to equip these individuals with the tools for success but also to drive systemic change, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusivity across the skilled trades sector. This program represents a proactive step toward building a more resilient, inclusive workforce that reflects the diverse communities it serves and enriches the skilled trades with a broad range of perspectives, experiences, and talents.