The United States Consulate General in Lagos, in partnership with the Field of Skills and Dreams VTE Academy, has launched the Emerging Technicians Conference to equip young Nigerian technicians with the expertise needed to excel in their trades and build sustainable businesses.
A total of 120 emerging technicians from fields such as plumbing, electrical work, automobile mechanics, HVAC systems, solar installation, data science, and web development have been selected for a six-month mentorship program. The initiative aims to enhance technical proficiency while also providing entrepreneurial knowledge on business management, branding, marketing, customer service, and basic accounting to improve access to financing and growth opportunities.
Speaking at the conference held at the American Corner Ikeja, Acting U.S. Consul General JoEllen Gorg reaffirmed the U.S. Mission’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses in Nigeria. Gorg emphasized that equipping technicians with business and technical skills not only creates jobs but also strengthens economic resilience and innovation between Nigeria and the U.S.
Industry experts, including U.S. Consulate General Facilities Manager Cynthia Gwaro, Equinix West Africa’s Head of Customer Relations Dr. Christiana Okenla, and Daikin’s Key Accounts Manager for Anglophone West Africa Zansi Adebowale, shared insights on career growth and business sustainability.
Omowale Ogunrinde, Executive Director of the Field of Skills and Dreams VTE Academy, highlighted the importance of aligning workforce training with evolving technological advancements. She noted that investing in youth-driven technical skills can accelerate innovation and economic development in Nigeria.
With a focus on entrepreneurship and hands-on learning, the Emerging Technicians Conference aims to position Nigeria’s next generation of skilled professionals for success in an evolving job market.
