Skills Council of Canada

Trades Without Boundaries

Trades Without Boundaries is designed to emphasize the inclusivity and diversity within the skilled trades. This event aims to showcase the limitless opportunities in trades for individuals of all backgrounds, genders, and experiences, promoting a culture of acceptance and support in pursuing careers in this vital sector.

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Inclusive Workshops: Participate in hands-on workshops that cover a wide range of trades. These workshops are designed to be accessible and engaging for everyone, highlighting the inclusivity of the trades sector.
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Diversity Panels: Listen to and engage with diverse panels of trades professionals who share their experiences, challenges, and successes in the industry. These discussions will cover topics such as overcoming barriers, fostering inclusive workplaces, and the importance of diversity in driving innovation in trades.
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with employers, apprenticeship sponsors, and educators who are committed to diversity and inclusion in the trades. This is an excellent opportunity to find mentors, discover apprenticeship opportunities, and learn about supportive educational programs.
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Resource Expo: Explore a comprehensive expo featuring resources and organizations that support diversity and inclusion in trades. Gather information on scholarships, training programs, and community support networks designed to help you succeed.
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Empowerment Sessions: Attend special sessions focused on empowerment and personal development, designed to build confidence and resilience as you navigate your career in trades. These sessions will address topics such as leadership, self-advocacy, and building supportive communities.

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: Cosmetology

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

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

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

11:50-12:20 PM - Lunch

A 30-minute break for lunch.

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

Overview of masonry 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:

February 10, 2025

Event Summary

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Skilled Trades to Explore:

Cosmetology, Plumbing, Masonry

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.