Kamsiyochukwu Mbamalu
The U.S. Consulate General Lagos has launched the Emerging Technicians Conference, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at equipping young Nigerian technicians with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their trades and build sustainable businesses.
In partnership with the Field of Skills and Dreams VTE Academy, the conference brought together 120 emerging technicians from various technical fields, including plumbing, electrical work, automobile mechanics, HVAC, solar systems design, and data science.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe six-month mentorship programme is designed to foster entrepreneurial know-how, providing participants with insights into in-demand technical fields, continuous skills development, and innovation-driven career success.
Acting U.S. Consul General, JoEllen Gorg, emphasised the U.S. Mission’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses in Nigeria. “Technicians and artisans are vital to a thriving economy,” Gorg said. “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.”
The conference featured industry leaders sharing valuable expertise and connecting participants with resources to build successful businesses. Participants also gained practical knowledge of business management, branding, marketing, customer service, and basic accounting processes.
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Omowale Ogunrinde, Executive Director of Field of Skills and Dreams VTE Academy, highlighted the significance of aligning technical workforce training with rapid technological advancements. “This initiative invests in one of Nigeria’s most valuable resources—its youth,” Ogunrinde said. “By nurturing local talent in key technical fields, we can accelerate innovation and economic growth.”
For Khadijat Ajagbe, an HVAC technician and programme participant, the experience has been invaluable. “The Emerging Technicians Conference has equipped me with essential business and technical skills, from fostering industry connections to understanding how innovation drives business growth.”
