Skills Council of Canada

New Horizons in Trades

"New Horizons in Trades" is a groundbreaking event designed to bridge the gap for newcomers to Canada, offering a comprehensive introduction to the skilled trades landscape. Hosted by Skills Council of Canada, this event recognizes the unique challenges faced by immigrants and aims to facilitate their integration and success in the trades. Through informative workshops, networking opportunities, and resource sharing, "New Horizons in Trades" seeks to empower newcomers with the knowledge and connections needed to thrive in their new home.

Welcome and Orientation Session: Begin your journey with a warm welcome and an overview of the skilled trades landscape, including the importance of trades to the Canadian economy and communities.
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Skills Assessment and Career Matching Workshops: Participate in workshops designed to assess your skills and interests and match them with potential career paths in the trades. These sessions will help you understand where your existing skills may fit within the Canadian trades context.
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Navigating Certification and Apprenticeships: Gain valuable insights into the certification requirements for various trades in Canada, and learn about the apprenticeship system, including how to apply, what to expect, and how to succeed.
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Success Stories Panel: Hear from other newcomers who have successfully established careers in the skilled trades. Learn from their experiences, challenges, and triumphs as they navigated their new careers in Canada.
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Networking and Mentorship Opportunities: Connect with potential employers, industry mentors, and fellow newcomers. This is an excellent opportunity to build your professional network and find guidance and support as you embark on your trades career.
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Resource Fair: Explore a variety of resources available to newcomers, including language training programs, financial aid, and support services from government and community organizations dedicated to helping newcomers succeed.

Event Agenda

8:30 - 9:20 AM - Arrival and Welcome

Participants arrive and register. A time for networking and settling in before the event officially begins.

9:30 - 10:30 AM - Session 1: Construction

Introduction to construction as a skilled trade, safety procedures, and hands-on activity.

10:40-11:40AM - Session 2: HVAC

Basics of HVAC as a skilled trade, safety practices, and a simple take-away activity.

11:50-12:20 PM - Lunch

A 30-minute break for lunch.

12:30-1:30 PM - Session 3: Automotive

Overview of automotive repair as a skilled trade, tools, and a hands-on activity.

1:40-2:40 PM - Info Session and Panel Discussion

Panel discussion with successful people in the skilled trades, Q&A session, and information on apprenticeship opportunities. Closing remarks.

Event Date:

January 13, 2025

Event Summary

This event is designed to inform, support, and integrate newcomers into the trades community, providing them with the tools and knowledge needed to pursue successful careers in this vibrant sector.

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Skilled Trades to Explore:

Construction, HVAC, Automotive

Panel discussions

The day will include a panel of industry experts that will share their experiences, stories and have interactive conversations with attendees

Partners Supporting the Event

Special thanks to all our great funding, facility, and management partners for all their support for this event. Your efforts, leadership and ongoing support to our participants is truly appreciated

Try Our Skilled Trades - FAQs

Everything you need to know about the program.

What is the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program?

The 'Try Our Skilled Trades' program is an initiative designed to introduce participants to the wide range of opportunities available in skilled trades. Focusing on practical, hands-on experiences, it aims to demystify trades careers and encourage more women to consider them as viable and fulfilling career options.

Who is eligible to participate in the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program?

Participants can explore a variety of trades, including but not limited to carpentry, electrical, plumbing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), welding, Auto Service and more. Each event may offer different trade options based on availability and participant interest. Please review each event to determine which trade you would be interested in exploring. Each event will typically focus on 3 trades.

Do participants need any prior experience in trades to join the program?

No, participants do not need any prior experience. The program is designed to be an introductory experience, offering a supportive environment to learn and explore different trades.

How long is the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program?

Program durations are typically structured as short, immersive experiences typically 1hr to 1.5hrs, allowing participants to get a tangible sense of each trade.

Is there a cost to participate in the program?

Most events under the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program are free to eligible participants. This initiative is part of Skills Council of Canada's commitment to making skills development accessible to all and funding is supported thanks to the Government of Ontario.

What will participants gain from attending the program?

Participants will gain hands-on experience, insights into various trades, and the opportunity to connect with professionals in the field. Additionally, the program aims to inspire confidence in pursuing trades as a career path.

Are there any support services available for participants after completing the program?

Yes, participants have access to career support mentors, further educational resources, and can be connected with employment opportunities through Skills Council of Canada's extensive network.

How can participants register for the 'Try Our Skilled Trades' Program?

Interested individuals can register through the Skills Council of Canada website or contact our program coordinators directly for more information on upcoming events and availability.

Where are 'Try Our Skilled Trades' events held?

Events are held in Brampton Ontario, utilizing our 17 trade facility at Judith Nyman Secondary School. Locations and dates are periodically updated on our website to reflect the latest schedule.