Skills for success (Essential Skills) summary
Skills for Success are needed in a quickly changing world for work, learning and life. They are foundational for building other skills and important for effective social interaction. Everyone benefits from having these skills as they help individuals get a job, progress at their current job and change jobs. They also help individuals become active members of their community and succeed in learning.
Through extensive research and consultations, the Government of Canada launched the new Skills for Success model renewing the previous Essential Skills framework to better reflect the needs of the current and future labour market.
The summary presented here is based on existing Essential Skills profiles and will be updated to align with the new Skills for Success model over time.
Reading
Tilesetters require strong reading skills to read instructions and specification guides on installation procedures and the most effective way to use or apply a product. Tilesetters read work orders to learn about specific client requests and instructions from co-workers and forepersons to coordinate work activities.
Document Use
Tilesetters interpret shop drawings and blueprints to calculate measurements and determine pattern layout. Tilesetters also refer to provincial building codes and industry resources.
Writing
Tilesetters use writing skills to prepare work orders, timesheets and instructions for co-workers to co-ordinate work. They may keep personal logbooks on the details and status of tasks performed. On occasion, tilesetters may need to complete hazard or near-miss reports.
Oral Communication
Tilesetters interact with supervisors to receive directions and assignments. They communicate with co-workers, other trades and customers to coordinate work and schedule activities. Tilesetters may instruct apprentices and speak with suppliers when ordering product.
Numeracy
Tilesetters measure and calculate product quantities taking into consideration factors such as slopes, curves and pattern layout. They calculate mix ratios and convert measurements between imperial and metric systems.
Thinking
Tilesetters often have to use thinking skills to resolve problems like laying tile in rooms that are not square. They make decisions regarding the best way to complete a job and then plan and organize the implementation of that work. Tilesetters keep track of priorities, safety considerations, client instructions and job-specific installation details.
Working with Others
Tilesetters can work independently, as part of a team on larger projects or with an apprentice. They coordinate projects with co-workers and other trades. Tilesetters also maintain close contact with supervisors, forepersons and clients to discuss job details, address problems and perform quality control checks.
Digital Technology
Tilesetters may use computer software to design layouts, communicate with clients, for research, and develop work orders and other documentation.
Continuous Learning
Technical upgrading is offered by some manufacturers when new products or equipment are introduced. Provincial construction associations offer safety training courses. Tilesetters may upgrade or develop new skills through various means such as working with more experienced tilesetters or supervisors.