U.S. Consulate advances economic opportunities for 120 emerging technicians

Joy Agwunobi 

JoEllen Gorg, Acting U.S. Consul General  (3rd right) and Omowale Ogunrinde, executive director of Field of Skills and Dreams VTE Academy (3rd left) with other leading industry experts at the conference

The U.S. Consulate General Lagos, in collaboration with the Field of Skills and Dreams VTE Academy, has inaugurated the Emerging Technicians Conference,  an initiative designed to equip young Nigerian technicians with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their trades and build sustainable businesses.

Bringing together 120 aspiring technicians from diverse technical fields including plumbing, electrical work, automobile mechanics, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), solar system design and installation, data science, and web development the six-month mentorship programme is designed to bridge skill gaps and enhance career prospects.

The conference provided participants with critical insights into evolving industry trends, the importance of continuous professional development, and the role of innovation in shaping career success. Beyond technical proficiency, attendees gained hands-on knowledge in business management, branding and marketing, customer service, and financial literacy essential components for securing future financing and expanding their businesses.

The conference also featured panel discussions led by industry leaders, including Cynthia Gwaro, U.S. consulate general facilities manager; Christiana Okenla, head of customer relations at Equinix West Africa; and Zansi Adebowale, key accounts manager for Anglophone West Africa at Daikin. These experts provided practical guidance, shared industry insights, and connected participants with resources to help them build thriving businesses.

 JoEllen Gorg, Acting U.S. Consul General, delivering remarks during the Emerging Technicians Conference at the American Corner Ikeja

Speaking at the event held at the American Corner in Ikeja, JoEllen Gorg, Acting U.S. Consul General, reaffirmed the U.S. mission’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and strengthening Nigeria’s small business ecosystem.

Gorg noted that promoting economic resilience through technical training creates jobs and expands opportunities for young people; drives mutually beneficial innovation, trade, and investment; and builds a strong foundation for shared prosperity for both of our two countries.

“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.

Omowale Ogunrinde, executive director of field of skills and dreams VTE Academy, highlighted the importance of aligning technical training with the demands of a rapidly evolving economy.

“This initiative is an investment in Nigeria’s future. By equipping young people with in-demand skills and entrepreneurial knowledge, we are accelerating local innovation and economic development,” Ogunrinde noted.

For participants like Khadijat Ajagbe, an HVAC technician, the experience has been transformational. “The Emerging Technicians Conference has equipped me with essential business and technical skills, from fostering industry connections to understanding how innovation drives business growth. Learning from experienced professionals has been truly impactful,” Ajagbe  shared.

In the coming weeks, participants will continue to refine their skills through mentorship and hands-on training, leveraging their newly acquired expertise to scale their businesses and contribute to Nigeria’s long-term economic growth.