The US Consulate General in Lagos has partnered with the Field of Skills and Dreams VTE Academy to launch the Emerging Technicians Conference, aimed at equipping young Nigerian technicians with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their trades and build sustainable businesses.
The partnership is designed to promote economic resilience through technical training, creating jobs, expanding opportunities for young people, driving innovation, trade, and investment.
Acting US Consul General JoEllen Gorg, while delivering a goodwill address at the American Corner in Lagos, reaffirmed the longstanding commitment of the US to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses in Nigeria.
“Technicians and artisans are vital to a thriving economy. By providing entrepreneurship training, resources, and networking opportunities, we are championing high-quality craftsmanship and empowering the next generation of technicians to thrive in an ever-changing job market,” Gorg said.
The Executive Director of Field of Skills and Dreams VTE Academy, Omowale Ogunrinde, highlighted the importance of aligning technical workforce training with rapid technological advancements.
“This initiative invests in one of Nigeria’s most valuable resources – its youth. By nurturing local talent in key technical fields, we can accelerate innovation and economic growth,” Ogunrinde said.
The program has selected 120 emerging technicians from various technical fields, including plumbing, electrical work, automobile mechanics, HVAC, solar systems design and installation, data science, and web development, for a six-month mentorship program.
The conference provided participants with insights into the evolving landscape of in-demand technical fields, the importance of continuous skills development, and the role of innovation in career success.
