Intro to Community Build

< Back to Skills Trade Programs

Intro to Community Build

The training program will include essential employability and soft skills development required for working in the construction sector.
This skills and workforce development program aims to help individuals stay current in their field, enhance their employability skills, and gain a deeper understanding of specific topics, thereby making them more competitive in the job market.

Explore the fundamentals of construction by participating in a building project designed to support the local community.  

  • Learn how to identify and select materials, use hand and power tools, and practice framing and assembly techniques to build the project to specifications.  

The actual build will vary depending on the community partner.  The course provides an opportunity to explore and develop basic construction and related skills.

Program Eligibility

This program is exclusively available through Skills Council of Canada. Registration is required and applicants must be approved as space is limited. Applicants must be between the ages of 15-29 and a Canadian Citizen. There is no cost to the program thanks to the funding provided by the Ontario Government.
Start Date:
End Date:
November 5, 2024
December 26, 2024
Location:
Eva Rothwell Trade Lab - Hamilton

Program Features

• In-depth exploration of specific topics
• Hands-on learning opportunities
• Knowledge sharing from industry experts
• Small group settings for personalized attention
• Access to modern workshop facilities

Benefits of Program

• Deep understanding of specific skills or topics
• Up-to-date knowledge and skills
• Insights from industry professionals
• Personalized learning experience
• Use of state-of-the-art facilities
This skilled training program keep individuals current in their field, enhance their skills, and offers deeper understanding of specific topics, making them more competitive in the job market.

Training Schedule

Welcome and Course Overview
Day 1
4 hours

Welcome and Course Overview

  • Introduction to course objectives, outcomes, and structure.
  • Overview of the community build project and its goals.
  • Introduction to the Construction Industry
  • Overview of basic construction principles.
  • Discussion on the role of construction in community development.
  • Project Planning and Roles
  • Introduction to the specific community project.
  • Assign roles and responsibilities to participants.
  • Discuss project timeline and milestones.
Understanding Construction Drawings
Day 2
4 hours

Understanding Construction Drawings

  • Introduction to reading construction drawings and blueprints.
  • Practical exercise: interpreting project drawings for the community build.
  • Material Identification and Selection
  • Overview of different construction materials (wood, metal, etc.).Hands-on session to identify and select appropriate materials for the project.
  • Safety Training
  • General safety protocols for construction sites.
  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) overview and demonstration.
Introduction to Hand Tools
Day 3
4 hours

Introduction to Hand Tools

  • Overview of common hand tools used in construction (hammers, saws, levels, etc.).
  • Hands-on practice with hand tools, focusing on safety and proper use.
  • Introduction to Power Tools
  • Overview of basic power tools (drills, saws, sanders).
  • Safety precautions and hands-on demonstration of power tools.
Tool Maintenance and Safety
Day 4
4 hours

Tool Maintenance and Safety

  • How to maintain and care for hand and power tools.
  • Safety checks and troubleshooting common issues.
  • Hands-On Tool Practice
  • Supervised practice session using both hand and power tools.
  • Participants complete small exercises to build confidence and skill.
Introduction to Framing
Day 5
4 hours

Introduction to Framing

  • Basics of framing structures in construction.
  • Overview of types of framing (platform, balloon, etc.).
  • Hands-On Framing Practice
  • Practice measuring, cutting, and assembling basic frames.
  • Team-based exercises to simulate real-world framing scenarios.
  • Review and Feedback
  • Discuss challenges and successes from the practice session.
Advanced Framing Techniques
Day 6
4 hours

Advanced Framing Techniques

  • Techniques for more complex framing (window and door openings, load-bearing walls).
  • Practical demonstration and hands-on practice.
  • Workshop: Building Frame Components
  • Participants build specific components of the project.
  • Focus on accuracy and adherence to specifications.
Assembly Techniques
Day 7
4 hours

Assembly Techniques

  • Introduction to assembly methods (nailing, screwing, jointing).
  • Hands-on demonstration and practice of different assembly techniques.
  • Collaborative WorkImportance of teamwork in construction.
  • Team-based exercises to assemble project components.
Project Assembly Begins
Day 8
4 hours

Project Assembly Begins

  • Begin assembling sections of the community build project.
  • Focus on coordination, safety, and quality.
  • Workshop: Problem Solving in Assembly
  • Discuss common challenges in assembly.
  • Group brainstorming and problem-solving session.
Mid-Project Review
Day 9
4 hours

Mid-Project Review

  • Review progress against the project plan and timelines.
  • Identify areas needing adjustments or additional support.
  • Continued Project Assembly
  • Continue working on assembling the project.
  • Focus on refining techniques and improving efficiency.
Quality Assurance and Inspection
Day 10
4 hours

Quality Assurance and Inspection

  • Review completed work for quality and compliance with specifications.
  • Make necessary adjustments or corrections.
  • Workshop: Advanced Techniques
  • Introduction to more advanced construction techniques relevant to the project.
  • Hands-on practice with new methods.
Introduction to Finishing Techniques
Day 11
4 hours

Introduction to Finishing Techniques

  • Overview of finishing techniques (painting, staining, sealing).
  • Discuss the importance of finishing work in construction.
  • Hands-On Finishing Practice
  • Practice applying finishes to project components.
  • Focus on techniques for smooth, professional finishes.
Final Assembly and Detailing
Day 12
4 hours

Final Assembly and Detailing

  • Complete assembly of project components.
  • Focus on details and finishing touches to ensure quality.
  • Workshop: Final Inspection and Quality Check
  • Inspect the project for quality and completeness.
  • Make any final adjustments or improvements.
Final Project Work
Day 13
4 hours

Final Project Work

  • Complete any remaining tasks on the community build project.
  • Ensure all safety and quality standards are met.
Project Completion and Clean-Up
Day 14
4 hours

Project Completion and Clean-Up

  • Finalize all aspects of the community build.
  • Clean up the site and prepare for project presentation.
  • Reflection and Feedback
  • Discuss the learning experience and project outcomes.
  • Open feedback session with participants and instructors.
Holiday
Day 15
4 hours

No class due to holiday week.

Final Review and Course Highlights
Day 16
4 hours

Final Review and Course Highlights

  • Recap of major topics covered and skills developed.
  • One-on-One Feedback Sessions
  • Individual feedback and advice from instructors.
  • Certification Ceremony and Closing Remarks
  • Present certificates of completion to participants.
  • Closing remarks and networking opportunities.