Trent University graduates will have enhanced access to local employment opportunities, supports and work-integrated learning through the innovative new Community Concierge program, developed in partnership with the City of Kawartha Lakes and Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development (PKED), and supported through $822,392 in funding through the Government of Ontario’s Skills Development Fund. 

"Trent University plays a critical role in providing a labour force equipped with the skills employers demand,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice-chancellor of Trent University. “We welcome the Community Concierge program and are working with our partners to create opportunities for our graduates to gain experience and pursue careers in the local community.”

Creating a resilient economy with recent graduates

This innovative new program strives to ensure a resilient workforce by supporting the entry of recent graduates into the labour market, and supporting local and rural employers to fill skilled job vacancies.

The 12-month Community Concierge program, led through Careerspace at Trent University, will create new staff positions to support 60 multi-year partnership agreements between Trent University and local employers, and cultivate employment opportunities for 100 recent graduates.

A portion of the Skills Development funding will allow the University to provide training subsidies and support to eligible job seekers during training and upskilling opportunities and the transition to rural employment. Partnership agreements will also address future work integrated learning placements for emerging graduates to better transition them to full-time employment in the region upon graduation.

“This is incredible news for local jobs seekers and employers in Kawartha Lakes and Peterborough County,” said Laurie Scott, MPP for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock, who made the announcement of the Skills Development funding for the Community Concierge program, as well as funding for two projects at Fleming College. “These three local programs delivered by Fleming College and Trent University will help people upgrade their skills and get connected with good, local jobs that are in-demand now and in the future.” 

“This coordinated effort between government and education is a great thing for students in Kawartha Lakes,” said City of Kawartha Lakes Mayor Andy Letham. “It will help us strengthen our local workforce and help graduates build their careers right in their own community."

The Community Concierge positions will be based out of City of Kawartha Lakes, PKED, and Careerspace at Trent University. The Skills Development Fund is an Employment Ontario program, funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.