(TORONTO) - A groundbreaking new training program designed to support Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) in the construction industry is launching through a partnership between the Afro-Canadian Contractors Association (ACCA) and George Brown College (GBC). As the demand for housing continues to grow, this initiative seeks to address a key factor in the underrepresentation of BIPOC in the construction workforce.
Shedrack Idemudia, CEO of 905 RENO and a graduate of GBC, knows firsthand the challenges faced by BIPOC entrepreneurs in the construction industry. "As a first-generation immigrant, I didn't have mentors, a networking base or seed capital to start my painting business," he explained. "So, I built my community and my business from scratch. I'm proud to be a part of this novel program that makes the transition into the construction industry easier for BIPOC people.”
Shedrack's journey highlights the very issues this program aims to address, including the lack of access to professional networks, high upfront training costs, and the unique barriers BIPOC individuals often face when starting construction-based businesses.
Program Overview
The new partnership will provide targeted training in areas like business development, financial management, and leadership, equipping participants with the tools to overcome these challenges. The BIPOC-focused program, notably a first of its kind with GBC and ACCA offers a comprehensive curriculum covering essential aspects of construction entrepreneurship, including business development, financial management, legal frameworks, marketing, and leadership. The program is designed to be accessible, providing BIPOC contractors with the tools needed to navigate and succeed in an industry where they have been historically underrepresented.
Voices of Leadership: "At George Brown, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities," said Dr. Gervan Fearon, President of George Brown College. "This partnership with ACCA reflects our commitment to fostering a more inclusive construction industry and to assist in meeting labour market needs. We are also excited to support BIPOC contractors on their entrepreneurial journeys."
"Entrepreneurship is vital to support the growth of Ontario's economy, and we are happy to facilitate such opportunities," said Dr. Eileen De Courcy, Vice-President, Academic at GBC. "Harnessing the talents of the BIPOC community will also help reinforce the province's reputation as an innovation and productivity hub, which benefits everyone."
"We’re incredibly proud to collaborate with George Brown College on this important initiative," said Stephen Callender, President of the Afro Canadian Contractors Association. "This course is more than just education; it’s about empowering BIPOC contractors to take control of their futures and contribute meaningfully to the industry."
“Our government is on a mission to build stronger, more inclusive communities by helping people find the meaningful, well-paying jobs they need,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.” We’re pleased to support this new project from the Afro Canadian Contractors Association to help more BIPOC skilled trades professionals access valuable training and opportunities to help build Ontario. I’m excited to see that our Skills Development Fund investment is not only supporting the construction sector, it’s also removing barriers to meaningful, well-paying jobs for all.”
A Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
This partnership underscores ACCA’s dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the construction industry. By joining forces with George Brown College, a leader in applied education, ACCA aims to bridge the gap in entrepreneurial education for BIPOC contractors, who have historically been underrepresented in leadership roles within the industry.
Funding and Support
This Employment Ontario Program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the Canadian construction industry. The funding support underscores the importance of this initiative in creating opportunities for BIPOC contractors and helping them build and scale sustainable businesses.
About Afro Canadian Contractors Association
The Afro Canadian Contractors Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to advocating for the advancement and representation of BIPOC contractors and construction professionals across Canada. ACCA offers resources, networking opportunities, and educational programs designed to support the growth and success of its members in the construction industry.
About George Brown College
Toronto’s George Brown College is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples.
George Brown prepares innovative, adaptable graduates with the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing job market. With three campuses in the downtown core, the college blends theory with experiential learning, applied research, and entrepreneurship opportunities. George Brown offers 175 full-time programs and 182 continuing education certificates/designations across a wide variety of professions to more than 28,500 full-time students and receives more than 53,600 continuing education registrations annually. Students can earn certificates, diplomas, graduate certificates, apprenticeships, and degrees. www.georgebrown.ca
