Pathways to the Skilled Trades

Pathways to the Trades is a free 8-week program targeting clients who are currently unemployed, interested in exploring the trades, and are experiencing financial hardship. This specialized program has been designed to help you make a successful transition into the trades, whether you have completed high school or not. This will be achieved through a strong focus on developing individualized learning plans, advising, career exploration, and skill building.

The program includes 30 hours of training per week including 15 hours of trades exposure relevant to the specific pathway chosen, 6 hours of academic upgrading, and 2 hours of employment prep. You will also complete safety training and other relevant certifications including First Aid and Working at Heights. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to participate in possible facility tours, hear from people already in the trade, and participate in workshops discussing pathways, emotional intelligence, the apprenticeship process, funding your education, time management, budgeting, and other relevant topics. The program is 8 weeks, followed by a 12-week paid placement.

Participants will also have individual meetings with Humber’s Skilled Trades Advisor and develop individual plans to guide them along their next steps.

Program Benefits Include

• Participants will earn minimum wage to attend classes (30 hrs/week)
• Earn a bonus for program & work completion
• Receive safety gear for in-class training as well as work placements
• Funding to assist participants with transportation & food costs
• Funding to assist with emergency costs – housing, health, legal, etc.

Program areas include: Finish Carpentry (drafting, safety, introduction to tools, cabinet construction), Landscaping (horticulture, groundskeeping, arborist), Industrial Trades (machine shop, millwright, welding), and Residential Construction (plumbing, electrical, home renovation)

Admission Requirements

• Currently unemployed
• Interested in the trades but unsure as to which path to choose
• Financial hardship must be demonstrated
• Basic skill assessment required to determine supports needed
• Attend an interview (by invite only, based on assessment results)
• High school diploma is not required
• Must be eligible to work in Canada