Explore a future in the skilled trades.

Power of Trades helps newcomers to Canada access jobs in the skilled trades in Ontario. All services are offered free of charge. This program is offered at no cost to participants.

Not sure if the skilled trades are right for you?

Skilled trades are hands-on jobs in the construction, motive power, industrial, and service sectors.

There are over 140 skilled trades to choose from, like automotive repair, landscaping, child care, and masonry. These careers offer great opportunities for advancement, high salaries and options for self-employment.

The Power of Trades program is a pre-employment training program for newcomers to Canada. During a four-week session, you will receive information and advice about finding and keeping a job in the skilled trades in Ontario. The training includes understanding the apprenticeship process in Ontario, preparing for the Certificate of Qualification exam, labour laws and regulations in Ontario, understanding what Canadian trades employers look for in a new employee, resume and interview preparation, guest speakers from local industry, and other useful information and activities.

After completing the four-week classroom training, participants take part in a three-week work placement in the skilled trade of their choice.

Program includes:

Four weeks of in-class preparation training

A three-week work placement in a skilled trade of your choice

Orientation to skilled trades and apprenticeships

Access to workplace certifications that employers require for new employees

Access to academic upgrading (Ontario Secondary School Diploma)

Financial support to buy tools, supplies, and personal protective equipment

Ongoing individual job search support

Participants must:

Be a permanent resident or convention refugee

Be an Ontario resident

Have a strong interest in the skilled trades

Be 18 years of age or older

Services for employers:

Help with staffing needs

Access to job fairs and customized hiring sessions

Access to a pool of pre-screened candidates of all skill levels in all four trades sectors

Work placements with pre-screened, mature learners

Register today!

There is no cost to participate. Secure your place in our next session by filling out the registration form.

For more information about skilled trades, please contact: 226 448-0637 or email newcomers@ytr.ymca.ca

Go to https://www.ymcathreerivers.ca/immigrant-services-programs.

Power of Trades is an IRCC funded program for internationally trained professional newcomers.