Alumnus steps up with $1-million for skilled trades training

Homebuilder Steve Stipsits of Branthaven Homes is backing a five-year initiative through City School by Mohawk.

A distinguished alumnus is supporting City School by Mohawk and skilled trades training and recruitment at the college with a $1-million donation.

Steve Stipsits, president of local homebuilder Branthaven Homes, says the ongoing housing and housing affordability crisis cannot be solved unless the skilled trades shortage is addressed.

“There is an acute shortage already and a major wave of retirements is about to begin. We can’t build the housing we need without the skilled trades.”

Stipsits, who made the donation along with his wife, Elizabeth, says investing in City School will get more people trained – up to 1,200 individuals – while also tackling engrained poverty in some of the most vulnerable neighbourhoods in Hamilton.

The nationally recognized City School model, which offers tuition-free programs, breaks down barriers and makes postsecondary education accessible to those who need it most, says Stipsits.

“It’s the greatest vehicle I have ever seen to break the cycle of multigenerational poverty.”

Branthaven’s donation with matched funding from Mohawk College’s partnerships and government funding allows for a $2-million, five-year workforce development plan to create and accelerate educational and employment pathways for people in marginalized communities into the residential construction sector.

The investment means more students will be able to access the training and resources that can lead to meaningful, family-sustaining careers in the skilled trades.

“City School is the first step, a point of entry into what can be a direct career path or ongoing education or apprenticeship training,” says Emily Ecker, Associate Dean of Community Partnerships and Learning.

City School has trained more than 4,000 students since its 2015 inception.

Stipsits, who graduated from the Architectural Technology program at Mohawk College in 1984, has been named a Distinguished Alumnus and a Distinguished Fellow of Mohawk College. He now leads Branthaven, which was founded by his parents Albert and Judith, in 1971.

“I have a strong affinity for Mohawk College. I never cease to be amazed at how many at Mohawk College are doing the right thing. They go the extra mile to help people in our community. They see a need and step up to help.”

This story originally appeared in Momentum Magazine.