Tenaris tours give Indigenous youth, women 'up-close look' at electrician careers

A trio of local groups teamed up to host a pair of events in late-April geared toward sparking interest in a career as an electrician for Indigenous youth as well as young women.

Dubbed Tools for Success, the events were organized by Skills Ontario with help from Sault College and Tenaris.

On April 25, a group of Indigenous youth were on site at Tenaris to learn about the electrician trade by taking part in a workshop led by Sault College coordinator of electrical programs, Jon Pasiak.

The participants also took a tour of Tenaris and joined in a panel discussion as part of the day.

"By trying this skilled trade, we hope youth participating in the Tools for Success event last week see that becoming an electrician is a rewarding career and are inspired to pursue that career further,” said Ashley Cuglietta, senior manager of diversity, equity, inclusion, and Indigenous relations. “Skills Ontario is grateful for all the support Sault College and Tenaris have provided in making this event possible.”

A second event, which was for young women and those who identify as women, was held on April 26 at Tenaris and included a hands-on workshop and tour of Tenaris.

“We are glad to open our doors to show participating youth the important role an electrician has in an advanced manufacturing facility such as ours,” said Martin Castro, president of Tenaris in Canada. “We’re proud to partner on initiatives such as Tools for Success that provide youth with a unique opportunity to gain insights, get an up-close look at the career they’re aspiring to be in action, and to better understand the opportunities for growth and development these careers offer.”

“Sault College is pleased to collaborate with Skills Ontario and Tenaris on the Tools for Success event and offer Indigenous youth and young women an interactive experience and opportunity to learn more about skilled trades. By engaging with participants through this event, we will highlight both education and careers in the electrical trades and showcase how Sault College can support learning in this in-demand area. Offering post-secondary education in the electrical field and delivering in-school apprenticeship training for the Construction and Industrial Electrician trades, Sault College is a great place to ignite a passion for skilled trades and we look forward to fostering exploration and learning through this event,” said Corey Meunier, dean, technology, trades and apprenticeship at Sault College.