The Four County Labour Market Planning Board's unique approach to improving awareness of career opportunities throughout the board’s region with its’ “SOS” mobile showcase is on the road for an eighth year. Originally designed as a 5-year project, the SOS has proved this more personal, interactive, spontaneous and engaging way of learning about local career opportunities and educational pathways is an essential key in the delivery of information to youth. 

The 24’ long trailer travels to strategic events, schools and other community functions highlighting career and training opportunities in Bruce, Grey, Huron and Perth counties. Our objective is to reach students, parents, workers in career transition, and the community at large with the message that career opportunities exist for workers with the skills that local employers need.

The trailer provides up-to-date labour market information specific to our area, and has introduced interactive activities like the Makey Makey to inspire students. The project is aimed to reach people seeking employment or career transition, as well as youth as they consider future education and employment options.

Displays in the trailer focus on in-demand employment in key sectors such as healthcare, green jobs, energy, manufacturing, agriculture, environment and construction. The trailer also features information about employment service providers, skills and education upgrading, career opportunities and health and safety in the workplace.

Between April 2009 and March 2016, approximately 18,000 visitors visited the trailer at events such as the annual Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority’s Forest Festival, the Children's Water Festival in Chesley, MedQuest in Walkerton, Kincardine Family Day, Grade 7 Tech Days in MItchell and Cape Croker’s Pow Wow.

Comments made by area high school students and the general public include that “it was interesting to see how it was adapted” for each outing, “it’s nice to have the info come to the rural area”, and “it shows people there are fantastic trades to work in”.