To meet the future challenges of the science and IT sectors and build career opportunities for local youth, YouLaunch, a division of the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre (SSMIC) is creating new ways to break into this in-demand workforce.
YouLaunch develops entrepreneurial thinking and STEM skills for youth aged 15-29 in the Algoma region. The organization’s flagship offering, Skills Development Program provides youth with job-readiness training and skills to launch their careers in the tech sector.
The Skills Development Project’s fundamental goal is to train youth with marketable skills through coordinating Work Integrated Learning job placements. The skills and training include in-demand topics such as HTML, CSS/SCSS, JavaScript, System Analysis and Design, tech support, data collection, report writing, and everything designed to prepare youth to be job ready.
To date, YouLaunch’s Skills Development Program has helped 10 local participants complete work placements and fast-tracked them to prospective careers.
“Throughout these past months, I have learned a lot working in IT, and this experience will greatly impact my future,” said Rafael Medina who secured a career in IT with Algoma Legal Clinic after completing the program. “I'm very grateful to everyone involved in this initiative.”
In addition to job placements, program participants have access to networking opportunities, ensuring ongoing learning and success.
YouLaunch recently announced its new Developer Toolbox Series – a free workshop series designed to upgrade software development skills and help youth build their resume. Workshops have included, Introduction to GitHub and Pull Requests, and Arduino Embedded Programming, The next workshop UX (user experience) Design, will be scheduled for November 4th at the Delta Hotel. To learn more about upcoming YouLaunch events, click here
The complete developer workshop series includes workshops on SQL Basics, Frontend and Backend Development, Google Cloud and more. Participants can also access YouLaunch’s new online learning portal through Udemy. Upon completion, participants will receive an SSMIC certificate and a YouLaunch Developer Toolbox hoodie.
For more info on registering for the Developer Toolbox Series or the Skills Development Program, visit YouLaunch.ca or contact [email protected].