Skills Council of Canada

Trade Routes

"Trade Routes" is a landmark event dedicated to assisting newcomers in Canada as they explore the diverse and promising world of skilled trades. Hosted by Skills Council of Canada, this event is tailored to provide immigrants with the tools, knowledge, and connections necessary to embark on successful trade careers in their new home. Through informative sessions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities, "Trade Routes" aims to illuminate the path to prosperity and integration within the Canadian trades sector.

Orientation and Welcome Session: A warm welcome and an introduction to the skilled trades landscape, highlighting the significance of trades to the Canadian economy and society.
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Pathway Workshops: Interactive workshops that detail the steps to entering various trades, including information on accreditation, certification processes, and apprenticeship programs specific to newcomers.
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Success Stories Panel: Inspirational talks from successful tradespeople who were once newcomers themselves. Hear their stories of transition, adaptation, and success in the Canadian trades sector.
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Networking with Industry Professionals: Opportunities to meet and connect with employers, trades professionals, and fellow newcomers. This networking session is designed to build connections, share experiences, and find mentorship.
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Resource Fair: Access to a wide range of resources aimed at helping newcomers navigate their new environment and the trades sector. This includes information on language support services, credential recognition, financial aid, and training programs.
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Cultural Exchange: A space to celebrate the diverse cultures of newcomers to Canada, recognizing the strength and creativity they bring to the trades. This session encourages cultural exchange and mutual learning among participants.

Event Agenda

3:30 - 4:00 PM - Arrival and Welcome

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

4:10 - 5:10 PM - Session 1: Cosmetology

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

5:20-6:20 PM - Session 2: Green Industries

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

6:30-7:00 PM - BREAK

A 30-minute break for snack / dinner

7:10-8:10 PM - Session 3: Plumbing

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

8:20-9:20 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:

November 25, 2024

Event Summary

Trade Routes is specifically designed to guide newcomers through the landscape of skilled trades in Canada. This event aims to map out the pathways to success in trades for immigrants, offering a comprehensive overview of opportunities, training, and support systems available to help them navigate their new environment and build rewarding careers.

Skilled Trades to Explore:

Cosmetology, Green Industries, Plumbing

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.