Skills Council of Canada

Skill Builders

"Skill Builders" is a dynamic event crafted to inspire and equip individuals interested in the skilled trades with the essential skills and knowledge needed for success. Hosted by Skills Council of Canada, this event offers a comprehensive platform for hands-on learning, personal growth, and professional development. Through interactive workshops, informative sessions, and networking opportunities, "Skill Builders" aims to provide participants with the tools and confidence to build a successful career in the trades.

Hands-On Workshops: Participate in a variety of workshops led by experienced trades professionals. These sessions are designed to provide practical, hands-on experience in key areas such as basic carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, welding, and more.
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Skills Development Sessions: Attend sessions focused on essential skills for success in the trades, including safety training, tool usage, measurement and calculation, and blueprint reading.
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Career Readiness Workshops: Engage in workshops aimed at preparing you for the workforce, covering topics such as resume building, interview skills, job search strategies, and workplace etiquette.
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with trades professionals, employers, and educators. This is an excellent chance to ask questions, gain insights, and build connections that could lead to apprenticeship opportunities and employment.
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Resource Fair: Explore a resource fair featuring educational institutions, trade unions, apprenticeship programs, and support services. Gather information on training opportunities, scholarships, and other resources to help you advance in your trades career.

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: Masonry

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

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

Basics of automotive repair as a skilled trade, safety practices, and a hands-on activity.

11:50-12:20PM - Lunch

A 30-minute break for lunch.

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

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

1:40-2:40PM - 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:

December 9, 2024

Event Summary

Skill Builders is designed to engage and empower participants by providing them with practical skills and knowledge essential for success in the skilled trades. This event focuses on hands-on learning, personal development, and career readiness, aiming to equip attendees with a solid foundation for their future in the trades.

Skilled Trades to Explore:

Masonry, Automotive, Construction

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.