One of the main objectives of the Department of Labor Affairs and Social Services is to secure gainful employment opportunities for job seekers. However, many persons require additional training and experience before being considered suitable for certain employment opportunities. Because of noted best practices and the continued success of this form of engagement with the business community implemented in 2014, the department will continue to pursue job training opportunities for applicants seeking career development opportunities. A formula has been identified by the department which provides clients with guided on the job supervision by companies partnered with the Department of Labor Affairs and mentorship and support in the form of a Job Coach. This initiative led to an agreement with Mr. Kenneth Oliver Director of J & F Engineering for one year to train two or more selected clients in the field of welding.
During the month of October two clients were selected to travel to Trinidad & Tobago for an all-expense paid training opportunity. The duration of the theoretical training was 3 weeks and encompassed various levels of welding, such as Basic Level Shield Metal Arc Welding, Advance Shield Metal Arc Welding, Gas Cutting and Basic Level Fitting and much more. A representative from the Department of Labor Affairs and Social Services also travelled to Trinidad and Tobago in order to meet with representatives from J&F as well as to observe the trainees while practicing their new learned skill. The representative was introduced to various stakeholders within the Damus Limited welding company. Every effort was made by J&F, including covering most of the expenses, to ensure that both the trainees and the department’s representative were well trained and informed of the training developments.
J&F Engineering, via Damus Limited, has graciously agreed to build on a sustainable and strategic approach to creating suitable employees by engaging in training. This agreement resulted in two young adults achieving regionally accredited certification within a specialized field. The trainees have since both successfully completed the two-week training in Trinidad and will now participate in an on-the-job training in St. Maarten to highlight and build on their newly acquired training expertise.
Senior Welder and Direct Trainer, Mr. Clayton Moore, stated that he was very impressed by the determination of the trainees. He looked forward to further guiding and assisting them in building their skills on their project in St. Maarten.
“I was impressed and felt honored to be part of this team,” said one of the trainees. “In the beginning, it was difficult to catch on, but then I learned to focus and concentrate.” The other trainee stated, “I was able to improve each week. I would like to continue practicing until I become fully skilled.” Both young men felt extremely proud to be selected for the opportunity and are truly excited to put to use in St. Maarten all of the new knowledge and skills that they acquired in Trinidad & Tobago.
The Department of Labor Affairs will continue to be a front runner in this area by pursuing more training opportunities in addition to what is available right now at the Department of Labor Affairs. The results of the recent registration drive for the Start Here Campaign has shown us that people are hungry for opportunity and growth. The department is currently working on plans for phase two of the campaign which will include an all-out effort to engage the business community and secure long term strategic career development and employment opportunities for our clients. All interested persons are welcome to contact the department for more information on the various career development and or employment opportunities.