OTTAWA, Ont. — Federal grants and contribution programs that support the work of the Canadian Trucking Human Resources Council (CTHRC) are in the midst of a comprehensive change, but according to CTHRC officials, several existing initiatives will continue as planned while the new funding model is established.

“Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) recently unveiled plans to refocus the Sector Council Program, phasing out core funding and some elements of project funding by March 31, 2013,” says CTHRC executive director Angela Splinter. “This funding will be replaced by a refocused grants and contribution program to support many vital human resources priorities.”

The new approach will use calls for proposals to focus on labour market intelligence, National Occupational Standards, and certification/accreditation regimes. Sector councils like CTHRC will also be able to submit funding proposals through HRSDC initiatives such as the Foreign Credential Recognition Program and the Office of Literacy and Essential Skills.

“The CTHRC is already actively involved in each of these areas of interest,” Splinter says. “And we will be exploring every emerging funding avenue or partnership opportunity to support the Council’s future work.”

Meanwhile, the task of developing effective HR tools for the trucking industry will continue. Ongoing projects for 2011-12 include tools for hiring new Canadians (The Foreign Credential Recognition Project), updated labour market information (via surveys and other data), the latest volume in CTHRC’s HR series (Your Guide to Human Resources: Volume 3), and research into the link between licensing standards and safety.

“Projects like these are more important to the trucking industry than ever before,” says Gord Peddle, chair of the CTHRC’s board of directors. “We know the shortage of skilled workers will continue to intensify, particularly as a growing number of employees approach their retirement years. Tools like those offered by CTHRC will help us to identify emerging trends, welcome new Canadians who are vital to our industry’s future, and enhance skills development for key occupations in need.”