Centre for Skills

May 17, 2023 Get Your Credentials Assessed

Imagine you’ve researched and practiced all week for an interview for a job in your field and you felt your interview went very well! However, you discover that the other candidate got the job. Why? Because your educational credentials had not been assessed. The employer thereby, did not know if your educational background matched the requirements of the company. I’ve heard of this happening over the years from so many newcomers and it’s very unfortunate. My goal is to see all clients succeed and not miss out on any opportunities, so get your credentials assessed!

Mar 20, 2023 Volunteering Benefits Everyone in Canada, especially Newcomers!

When I first came to Canada, everyone was talking about volunteering. Mostly all my friends recommended me to volunteer. But why? I didn’t understand what was so important about it. I used to do a lot of volunteering back home before coming to Canada, however, it was not as emphasized as much as here.

What is so important about volunteering?

Mar 08, 2023 International Women's Day

At Centre for Skills, for international women’s day, we decided to showcase the successes of some of the women who have taken our trades programs, and what better way to do this than to let everyone tell their own story. As such, this blog contains responses from a survey that has been completed by our graduates. As much as we would have loved to display all of the great achievements of our participants, we could only pick a few responses to tell the story. Women from our programs are working in various fields throughout the trades, from construction, millwright, mechanics, and entrepreneurs.

Feb 22, 2023 The One-Stop-Shop for Canadian Newcomer’s Needs

Good advice can be difficult to find when you arrive in a new country, and sometimes hearing advice from many different people can get confusing! There can be so many opinions. What should newcomers do? Be cautious. Advice can be given with the best of intentions, but it can also be out-of-date and not fully informed. The first people you will ask for advice is of course people from your cultural community that have immigrated before you. Sometimes their advice can be quite useful, but don’t rely just on their advice alone, because your situation may not be the same as theirs was. What worked for them, may not work for you.

Jan 16, 2023 Start the New Year with new Connections and New Skills

As a newcomer, you chose Canada for a fresh start for your family, but that fresh start comes with challenges. You may be feeling isolated, disconnected from your new community, bored and perhaps even stuck with no computer literacy or English conversation skills. Settling in Canada is not always easy, and newcomers need support along the way and Canada knows this. It has funded community programs in many local agencies, such as here at the Centre for Skills Development in Halton.

Dec 09, 2022 The Ups and Downs of Newcomer Settlement in Canada

As a new immigrant to Canada around 10 years ago, I still remember my family’s very first winter. A lot of newcomers have this memory! For those of us who arrived in Canada in the winter, our first memory was stepping outside of the airport into the frigid air of reality! Could life on earth actually survive this cold, we wondered. If we arrived in summer, our cold wintery stereo-type of Canada got blown away by the unexpected heat, leaving us thinking that winter couldn’t be that bad with summers this hot! That was us: we arrived in June, it was so beautiful and hot! It made us feel like winters weren’t going to be so bad...we were, of course, so wrong!

Nov 08, 2022 Applicant Tracking System

The pandemic has changed the world of work and has influenced almost all industries in some way or another. Time is of the essence when recruiting and in a competitive marketplace it’s important for companies to make their hiring practices more efficient. ATS allows employers to review more applications without having to go through them manually. They utilize a software known as an “Applicant Tracking System “(ATS) that simplifies and expedites the recruiting process. It also manages ads on multiple job sites and records a database of new clients.

Nov 02, 2022 How To Stay Motivated During Your Job Search

Most of us have been there – sending out resumes and not hearing back, interviewing for a job and being told they are going with another candidate. Job searching can be difficult and sometimes disheartening! That is why it is so important to find ways to stay motivated through the ups and downs of your job search. Taking care of yourself is key! Remember the right job for you could be just around the corner. Here are some of our top tips for staying motivated and keeping yourself on track for a successful job search.

Oct 26, 2022 Learn idioms and expressions in context: Workplace small talk!

A typical day in Canada, you might have already noticed, requires you to know many, many idioms! Idioms are expressions that are often not necessarily logical or even connected to the words that make them. They have to be learned but the words don’t help us get clues to their meaning. So how do you learn them? Memorizing them from long idioms lists online? Studying them and using fill-in-the-blank exercises to clarify their meaning? No and no. I think, dear reader, you are saying NO along with me!

Sep 19, 2022 Canadian Workplace Culture Eh?

Congratulations you got your first job in Canada! Your big day is coming up and you are both excited and nervous. Besides the job description and your first week of orientation what else do you need to know? . . A LOT MORE THAN YOUR THINK….what about Canadian Workplace Culture? Sorry what?

Workplace Culture, refers to shared patterns of behavior, beliefs, customs, traditions, and values in a work setting. You might be qualified for a position, but your success as a worker will mostly be based on your ability to communicate well within the expectations of that workplace.

Aug 04, 2022 The Dreaded Interview Question; What Are Your Salary Expectations?

What Are Your Salary Expectations? . . . Eek! Gasp! Yikes!

Ouch, the dreaded interview question that’s asked.

What do you say? And most importantly, how do ask for what you think you deserve?

Newcomers, you are not alone if this question makes you nervous or unsure of how to answer it. Most English speaking Canadians worry about it too. Part of it’s related to Canadian culture as we don’t often discuss our incomes even with our closest friends. In addition, if your expectation is too low, a company may pay you peanuts and if too high, they may not want you and think you’re greedy.

Jul 19, 2022 First Major Job Interview in Canada…Get Prepared!

You heard of a great job and thought you would apply. Guess what? They now want to interview you next week. Congratulations! This is exciting and a big deal. Feeling nervous about interviewing for your first major job in Canada? Try to relax, take a deep breath, you are not alone and that is completely normal. Still nervous, right?

Here comes the hard part, most Canadian workplaces do not tell you what the questions will be ahead of time. How do you prepare?

Jun 03, 2022 The Most Important First Steps for New Immigrants to Canada?

For newcomers to Canada the first few days often go by with a flurry of emotions; confusion, excitement, fear, relief, worry, happiness, sadness. Jet lag wears off in a day or so, and before you know it you might be ready to start exploring your options, learning about your new environment and figuring out what are the next steps you should be taking to start building your new life in Canada. Settling in and beginning a new life in a new country is never an easy task, but having a plan or a to do list is always helpful to achieving your goals and this is no different.

May 09, 2022 Thank you, Volunteers

Last month was the National Volunteer Week in Canada. We were very excited and honored to be celebrating our volunteers and their successes. Volunteers are the heart of our community and at the Centre for Skills they are certainly front and centre for many who need their support. From assisting newcomers in their efforts to learn English, to settling in and preparing for work in Canada, to hosting computer training workshops for all who want to improve their skills, our volunteers give generously of their time and expertise to make the future better and the journey a little easier for someone they have never met before.

Apr 13, 2022 Contact Information for Services During Remote and In-Person Delivery

At Centre for Skills Development, the health and safety of our clients and staff is our number one priority. All of our locations are open to in-person service. In addition, we continue to provide services remotely as well.

Jan 31, 2022 A Newcomer's Journey to Calling Canada Home

Newcomers arrive in Canada every day. Canada aims to welcome 421,000 new permanent residents in 2023. Some are fleeing for their lives, some are re-uniting with their families, some come temporarily to work and some immigrate for business. No matter where they are from or how and why they came to Canada, newcomers all share a somewhat universal immigrant experience.

Here’s a story about Katarzyna and her family's journey to calling Canada home.

Dec 07, 2021 There Are Plenty of Jobs and Career Opportunities Waiting for You... But You Only Need to Find the One That’s Right for You!

The employment rate in Canada returned to pre-pandemic levels and the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) is finished for the most part. The good news is, there are plenty of jobs out there. Local companies are looking to hire full time or part time staff and many small businesses are having a hard time recruiting new employees.

“For workers reluctant to get back to the workforce, perhaps it’s not just about finding a job. It might just be about finding the right job.”

Sep 30, 2021 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, September 30, 2021

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a new federal holiday to be observed on September 30 each year. This holiday will commemorate the tragic legacy of residential schools in Canada, acknowledging the harm done to Indigenous Peoples. This is a day to reflect and honour survivors, ensuring they are never forgotten.

Although Centre for Skills remains open on this day, there are many ways we will partake in the commemoration of this day and show our support. We invite you to join us as we mark the First Annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Jan 31, 2021 Six Tips for Job Searching During a PandemicOpenHouse

While the process of looking for a job may be changing, we must remember there are always opportunities! Check out these actionable strategies you can use to boost your job search and set you apart from your competitors.

Jan 17, 2021 Job Seekers New Years' Resolutions for 2021

Did you know that the first quarter of the year is typically considered the best time of year to search for a job?

Check out these ideas that can help support your New Year's resolutions when it comes to your job search!

Jan 07, 2021 GET PAID TO LEARN 2 TRADES! GIG Starts Jan 25, 2021.

GET PAID TO LEARN 2 TRADES! To learn more or to register today e-mail gig@centreforskills.ca or call 289-208-4826. Program starts January 25, 2021.

Dec 17, 2020 Holiday Hours

Check out the Holiday hours for our Employment Services at our different locations between December 23, 2020 -January 1, 2021.

Dec 17, 2020 Career Networking This Holiday

Mixed with the holidays, many believe now is not the time for networking and to put away their resumes until the new year, but that is not the case. The holidays can actually make for a great time to network and expand on your contacts. Check out these tips on how you can mix in career networking into this season's festivities.

Oct 27, 2020 Register Today for our Virtual Open House! - Nov 10

Join us November 10 to learn more about the free programs & services Centre for Skills offers to help you on the path to career success! Register today: https://centreforskills.ca/Workshops-and-Events/Centre-for-Skills-Open-House

Oct 12, 2020 Happy Thanksgiving!

We are closed today and back to working remotely as regularly scheduled tomorrow, October 13. We hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Oct 09, 2020 From Offline to Online - ESL/LINC Classes Are Running!

From offline to online, Centre for Skills Development ESL/LINC programs have continued to stay connected while keeping their distance throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Once delivering classes strictly through in-person instruction, staff were remarkably able to move their classes online in a matter of days.

Oct 08, 2020 Jill Dunlop, MPP Visits WIST Program

We had a wonderful visit from Jill Dunlop, MPP, Ontario's Associate Minister of Women and Children’s Issues at our Skilled Trades location, touring the facility and learning about our Women in Skilled Trades: Enhanced General Carpentry (WIST) program.

Oct 01, 2020 Career Assessments

As we navigate these changes (both temperature and worldly events), we can also navigate the changes in our professional lives by gaining new insight of the workforce, and finding new paths forward in our careers. So how do we do this? Learning more about what your strengths are and what type of goals you are looking to achieve is a great first step, and a career assessment can help you achieve this.

Sep 17, 2020 Four Milton organizations receive $79,416 in funding through the New Horizons for Seniors Program to support local programs - Including Centre for Skills Development

Far too many seniors face isolation in their retirement years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Government of Canada is committed to empowering seniors by supporting new opportunities for older Canadians to stay informed, engaged and connected. Centre for Skills Development is elated to announce that we have received a grant for 'Better Together,' funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program.

Sep 07, 2020 Happy Labour Day!

Happy Labour Day!! We are closed today and back to working remotely as regularly scheduled tomorrow, September 8. We hope you have a great long weekend!

Sep 03, 2020 'Better Together' Program Announcement - Making a Difference in the Lives of Seniors

Centre for Skills Development is elated to announce that we have received a grant for 'Better Together,' funded by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program. The 'Better Together' program will be run by our EIS team and will provide online group activities designed to prevent the social isolation of seniors in a time of recommended physical distancing.

Sep 02, 2020 Register Today for our Online Citizenship Preparation Class! Classes begin September 11.

Aug 06, 2020 Register for our Get in Gear Program Today! Program Starts September 12.

GET PAID TO LEARN TWO TRADES! Learn electrical and machining trades in our Get in Gear Program & find the right career path for you, all while getting paid to do it! To learn more, or to register: http://centreforskills.ca/Skilled-Trades/Get-in-Gear Program begins September 12.

Jul 30, 2020 Centre for Skills Development Virtual Open House - August 19

Join us for our Virtual Open House on August 19 to learn all about our free programs and services that can help you on the path towards career success!

Jul 28, 2020 Newcomer Builds His New Career

The year 2015 was a big one for Mohamad. After immigrating to Canada from Turkey. With his parents and siblings in August that year, Mohamad began working two jobs to support his family. Looking to learn more about the Canadian workplace and develop new skills in the construction sector, Mohamad applied for the Home Renovation for Newcomers program offered at Centre for Skills Development in January 2019.

Jul 01, 2020 Happy Canada Day!

Happy Canada Day!! We are closed today and back to working remotely as regularly scheduled tomorrow, July 2. We hope you have a fabulous long weekend!

Jun 29, 2020 Thank You Burlington!

Thank you Burlington! - Honoured PLATINUM for 'Best Adult Education Centre' for the Burlington Post 2019 Reader's Choice Awards

Jun 23, 2020 Black Lives Matter

Many of us have been devastated by the violent, unprovoked actions by Minnesota Police officers, which led to the recent death of George Floyd. At marches in Toronto and Burlington recently, Canadians rallied to honour George Floyd and to combat the effects of racism. As a workplace and community stakeholder, Centre for Skills Development (Centre for Skills) acknowledges the need to speak out and work together to eradicate racism. Please click below to read our full statement.

Jun 09, 2020 Workshops Tailored to the Now

In the midst of a global pandemic, our Employment Services team went from instructing in-person, interactive workshops, to delivering them entirely online. Check out this story to see the new methods and kinds of workshops our ES team are now delivering!

Jun 01, 2020 Join our Workplace English classes!

Join our Online Workplace English Classes!

Jun 01, 2020 Join our Online Summer ESL Classes - Starts July 6!

Join our Online Summer ESL Classes - Starts July 6!

May 25, 2020 Tips for How to Prepare for Video Conference Interviews

During the pandemic, many employers are turning to video calls for their job interviews. For job candidates, the convenience of interviewing from home can be a major bonus! It can save you both travel time and money.
If you prepare for a video interview in advance, it can also be less stressful than interviewing in person. Check out these tips for how to prepare for a video conference interview!

May 15, 2020 Teaching During a Pandemic

Kate Maven has been teaching English to immigrants for over 30 years, but never in the way she is doing now. Thriving on face-to-face interaction and the connections she builds with her students, she has had to make a big adjustment with her teaching methods in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, teaching her Advanced and Basic English classes entirely online.

May 07, 2020 Mental Health Week

The Canadian Mental Health Association has marked the week of May 4 through 10 as Mental Health Week. It is time when we encourage one another to join in on the conversation around mental health, combat the stigma and create positive change.

Apr 02, 2020 MEP & WIST Programs Postponed

As the situation with COVID-19 continues, the Government of Ontario has mandated all non-essential businesses to be closed at this time. Therefore, our Industrial Millwright Mechanic & Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship Program for Youth and Women in Skilled Trades: Enhanced General Carpentry program both originally scheduled to begin April 6 have been postponed until we receive further instruction from the Ministry.

Mar 10, 2020 Public Events Cancelled

The health and safety of our clients, staff and event participants are of utmost importance in everything that we do. Therefore, given the current health concerns about COVID-19, Centre for Skills Development has made the decision to cancel all future public events for the time being, as a proactive measure.

Mar 03, 2020 We've been nominated for 'Best Adult Education Centre' for the Burlington Post Reader's Choice Awards 2019!

We've been nominated for the Burlington Post 2019 Reader's Choice Awards for 'Best Adult Education Centre'!!

Mar 03, 2020 We've been nominated for 'Best Learning Centre' for the Burlington Post Reader's Choice Awards 2019!

We've been nominated for the Burlington Post 2019 Reader's Choice Awards for 'Best Learning Centre'!!

Feb 24, 2020 Oakville Job Fair - March 11

Meet face to face with companies hiring th roughout Oakville and surrounding regions! Stay connected with the employment market, connect with other job seekers and employers, and increase your chance for an interview! Register today:

https://oakville-job-fair.eventbrite.ca

Jan 24, 2020 Aerotek Hiring Event - Feb 3

Aerotek is looking for Warehouse Associates in the Milton area! Register for their hiring event: https://aerotek-hiring-event.eventbrite.ca

Jan 06, 2020 Get in Gear Students Dress for Success!

Our Get in Gear ladies learned how to dress for success yesterday, learning tips from special guest Lisa Boyce, of MonahLisa Styles Image/Fashion Consulting Agency.

Jan 06, 2020 Attridge Transportation Hiring Event - January 9

Be a positive influence on the students in your community as a school bus driver! Register today for the Attridge Transportation hiring event: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/attridge-transportation-hiring-event-tickets-87140213725

Jan 06, 2020 Nova Driver Services Hiring Event - January 24

Love driving cars? Nova Driver Services is currently hiring! Join us on January 24 for their hiring event! Register today: https://nova-driver-services-jan.eventbrite.ca

Dec 20, 2019 Holiday Hours

Check out the Holiday hours for our Employment Services at our different locations between December 23, 2019 -January 1, 2020.

Dec 19, 2019 Funder Announcement - MEP

We were thrilled to have Jane McKenna, MPP Burlington join us yesterday at our Skilled Trades site to announce the $214,105 funding for our Industrial Millwright/Mechanic & Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship for Youth program for another intake!

Dec 18, 2019 Computer Course

Need help with computer basics to enhance your job search? If you have little to no experience using computers, we can help you boost your job searching skills in our free six-week computer course!

Dec 17, 2019 ParaMed Hiring Event - January 15 in Oakville

ParaMed is seeking energetic and dedicated Personal Support Workers, Developmental Social Workers, Nursing students and Health Care Aides to join their dynamic team of community support caregivers. Register today: https://paramed-hiring-event.eventbrite.ca

Dec 09, 2019 Networking Around the Holidays

Networking is one of the most important things you can do to support your job search. During the holidays, often people think it is time to put away their resumes until the new year, but that is not the case! The holidays can make for a great time to network and expand on your contacts. Check out these tips on how you can mix in career networking into this season's festivities.

Dec 04, 2019 Workplace English - Now in Two Locations!

Our Workplace English classes are now in two locations! Click here to find out more.

Dec 04, 2019 Art Workshop for Newcomers

The Art Workshop for Newcomers on Friday at our Burlington site was a huge success! In partnership with Art Gallery of Burlington, this free workshop taught basic techniques for painting in watercolour. Clients were encouraged to share their settlement story through art form and connect with others in their new community.

Nov 15, 2019 Celebrating Success - 2019

We had a wonderful evening last night celebrating the achievements of our clients and students at our 2019 Celebrating Success event. We listened to some great stories from our ‘Stars’ who shared in their own words what their journey towards success has meant for them and celebrated the achievements of our Women in Skilled Trades: Enhanced General Carpentry graduates and scholarship recipient winners.

Nov 01, 2019 Learning About Careers in the Canadian Navy!

This week, our Get In Gear students and Employment Services clients had the opportunity to learn first-hand about careers in the Canadian Navy when they were invited to attend a VIP tour and sail aboard the warship HMCS St.Johns.

Nov 01, 2019 Art Workshop for Newcomers - November 29

Share your settlement story through art on November 29! Register today by emailing alice.maroti@centreforskills.ca

Oct 24, 2019 Meet our new Commissioner of Oaths!

In Venezuela, Alice had been working as a Lawyer for almost ten years. After moving to Canada in 2012 and becoming a Settlement Information Specialist for Centre for Skills Development, Alice is excited to combine her two passions of legal and newcomer services into her new role as a Commissioner of Oaths for Centre for Skills Development.

Oct 22, 2019 Amazon Hiring Event - November 4 in Milton

Amazon strives to have a positive impact on customers, employees, small businesses, the economy, and communities. Join us for their Hiring Event on Monday, November 4 in Milton for Full-time Seasonal Warehouse Associates! Register today: https://amazon-hiring-event.eventbrite.ca

Oct 16, 2019 October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month!

#October is National #Disability Employment Awareness Month! The goal during this month is to increase #awareness of the positive outcomes of #hiring persons with #disabilities in #Canada.

Oct 02, 2019 Networking Workshop in Burlington - October 23

Join us in this interactive speed networking workshop on October 23 in Burlington and learn how to grab attention, identify your strengths and finish with a call to action! Register today: https://speed-networking-workshop.eventbrite.ca

Sep 30, 2019 Congratulations to our MEP 2019 Graduates!

Congratulations 🎓 to all of our Industrial Millwright/Mechanic & Electrical Pre-Apprenticeship Program for Youth students on successfully completing their program! We wish you the very best in the next chapter of your careers!

Sep 12, 2019 Join us Wednesday, September 18 for the Topnotch Employment Services Hiring Event!

Topnotch Employment Services has several warehousing and distribution clients currently seeking qualified candidates for various locations. Click here to register for the hiring event today!

Sep 05, 2019 Networking Could Land You Your Dream Job

Everyone understands the importance of networking, but it can often appear intimidating. Check out these networking tips, as well as information about our upcoming Accessing the Hidden Job Market workshops!

Aug 29, 2019 Happy Labour Day!

All of our sites are closed on September 2 in order to celebrate Labour Day, and will re-open as regularly scheduled September 3. We hope you enjoy the long weekend!

Aug 28, 2019 Join us Tuesday, September 17 for the Canadian Armed Forces Information Session!

Learn about various career paths and types of trades the Canadian Armed Forces recruit for with Petty Officer Monique Warning on Tuesday, September 17. To register click here.

Aug 12, 2019 Workplace English Program - Learn the Skills Needed for Your Career In Canada

Rasha Abou Chakra is the first point of contact in her workplace. When clients walk in the door, her duty is to present the company's services in a positive way and suggest solutions to their challenges. It's hard to believe that only three years ago Rasha could barely speak English. Read about Rasha's journey through our Immigration programs!

Aug 06, 2019 Why You Should Continue Your Job Search in the Summer Months

Many people believe that the summer months are a time where they should put away their résumé, but perception that companies cut back on hiring during the summer months simply is not true. Check out these four reasons why you should keep hunting while the sun is shining!

Aug 02, 2019 Happy Civic Holiday!

All Centre for Skills locations will be closed Monday, August 5 for the Civic Holiday. All of our sites will re-open as regularly scheduled Tuesday, August 6.

Aug 02, 2019 Happy Civic Holiday!

We are closed today and back to working remotely as regularly scheduled tomorrow, August 4. We hope you have a fabulous long weekend!

Jul 01, 2019 Happy Canada Day!

Happy Canada Day!! All of our sites are closed today and will reopen as regularly scheduled tomorrow, July 2. We hope you have a fabulous long weekend!

Jun 28, 2019 Interview to Impress - How to Leave a Lasting Impression

It's a fact: Knowing how to answer the tough questions in a job interview in ways that are both honest and powerful can help impress the interviewer and land the job. But how do you make sure you deliver a strong, solid interview? Read on to find out!

Jun 19, 2019 What Does a Commissioner of Oaths Do?

Interested in learning the English language this summer? Join our Summer ESL classes!

Jun 11, 2019 Spring Job Fair - Connecting Job Seekers with Opportunities

On June 4, job seekers and employers connected at Centre for Skills Development Spring Job Fair held at the Haber Recreation Centre in Burlington.

Jun 10, 2019 What Does a Commissioner of Oaths Do?

You may have heard that you need a Commissioner of Oaths in order to sign official documents. But what exactly does a Commissioner of Oaths do, and what kind of documents do they sign? Click here to find out!

May 16, 2019 From Student to Teacher - Ryan's Story

“Treat your education like it’s a job; I’ll be showing these students exactly what it is like in the real world, so it will be very hands on!” Read Ryan's story about how he's come full circle from student to instructor for our Get in Gear program!

May 13, 2019 Spring Job Fair - Join us June 4!

Meet face to face with multiple companies hiring throughout the Halton and surrounding regions at the Spring Job Fair. Stay connected with the employment market, connect with other job seekers and employers, and increase your chance for an interview! To register: https://spring-job-fair.eventbrite.ca

May 13, 2019 Spring Job Fair - Join us June 4!

May 07, 2019 Get in Gear Graduation

Con-grad-ulations to our Get in Gear students on graduating! These students spent the last 20 weeks in our career and trades exploration program developing life and employability skills, as well as hands-on training in construction, manufacturing and electrical, followed up by a 10 week paid work placement with a local employer.

Apr 18, 2019 Holiday Hours - April 19 - 22

Learn more about our Holiday Hours for April 19 - 22.

Apr 09, 2019 Persistence and Determination Led to a Better Job

Immediately after Barbara was laid off from her job, she drove straight to Centre for Skills Development for help. Read about Barbara's story here.

Apr 03, 2019 Former ELT Student Meets Renowned Canadian Interior Designer Brian Gluckstein

On Wednesday, March 27, former Enhanced Language Training (ELT) student, Ghina Saflo, was warmly welcomed into the Toronto studio of renowned Canadian interior designer and entrepreneur, Brian Gluckstein, for an informational interview.

Apr 02, 2019 Newcomer Rebuilds His Career in Canada

With over 15 years experience in the construction industry, Gangjian even found hanging a TV in his Canadian house a challenge. Read about Gangjian's experience coming to Canada, and how our Home Renovation for Newcomers program has impacted him.

Mar 08, 2019 Happy International Women's Day!

Happy International Women's Day! A balanced world is a better world, and today we celebrate women's achievements and raise awareness against bias. Our Women in Skilled Trades: Enhanced General Carpentry (WIST) program provides eligible women with the tools and training to launch a career in the Construction Industry. Learn more here.

Mar 04, 2019 How to Prepare Yourself to Ace Your Interview

After actively sending your resume out and applying for job openings, you've finally got a call from a company that wants you to come in for an interview! Here are some tips in order to prepare yourself for aceing your interview.

Feb 27, 2019 Weather alert: site closures

Due to poor weather and deteriorating road conditions, all Centre for Skills sites will close today (Wed., Feb. 27). Stay safe!

We apologize for any inconvenience, but during such weather conditions we err on the side of caution for the safety of our clients and staff.

Other Employment Services providers who may assist you are listed when you press the READ MORE button below.

Feb 20, 2019 Halton Region Newcomer Day - March 8 in Oakville

Join us in celebrating and welcoming newcomers to Halton Region!

Feb 13, 2019 Seasons Retirement Communities Hiring Event - February 20

Seasons Retirement Communities is hiring! Join us for their Hiring Event on February 20, where they are hiring for positions in both Independent Care and Memory Care home areas: https://seasons-retirement.eventbrite.ca

Feb 08, 2019 Sign Up for One of our WIST Information Sessions Today!

The next WIST program starts on April 1, 2019. Information sessions are taking place throughout February and beginning of March, any interested clients are encouraged to register online at https://wist2019.eventbrite.ca.

Feb 08, 2019 Warm Welcome in a Cold Country

The change that comes with moving to a new country was not easy for Ahmed and his family, but hope for a better life was what made it worth it. Read Ahmed's story moving to Canada and his experience in our English Language Learning program.

Feb 01, 2019 What is a Career Assessment?

What is a career assessment? A career assessment is a tool to help individuals determine their interests and personality as well as preferred work styles and environments. They can be completed online or in person.

Jan 31, 2019 Youth Job Fair - February 4

Looking for a job? Part-time, weekend and summer positions available!

Jan 22, 2019 New to Canada and Need Help?

New to Canada and Need Help? Click this article to find out when our Commissioner of Oaths staff are available at Tansley Woods and New Appleby Branch Library.

Jan 09, 2019 Attend Free Express Entry & Citizen Updates Presentation

Join us on January 29 to hear keynote speaker Robert Young disucss updates and news regarding Canadian Immigration.

Dec 24, 2018 Centre for Skills Development Employment Services Holiday Hours

Check out the Holiday hours for our Employment Services at our different locations between Monday, December 24, 2018 -Tuesday, January 1, 2019.

Dec 18, 2018 Register for our Enhanced Language Training Program - Deadline to Register is January 18, 2019

Still spots available for our Enhanced Language Training Program, registration open to students until January 18, 2019.

Dec 03, 2018 Newcomer Story - Passion for Dance, Passion for Canada

It was while dancing Albina discovered her love for Canada. Check out Albina's story and learn how she continues to share her story with Centre for Skills ELT students and tell them hard work can lead to reaching your goals.

Nov 20, 2018 Learn how to become a Millwright/Machinist! - November 28

Join us on Wednesday, November 28 for our 'How Do I Become a Millwright/Machinist?' Information Session! Register today at: https://millwrightmachinist.eventbrite.ca

Nov 19, 2018 Learn how to become a Contractor! - November 24

Join us on Saturday, November 24 for our 'How Do I Become a Contractor?' Information Session! Register today at: https://becomingacontractor.eventbrite.ca

Nov 12, 2018 Joe's Story

Completing our Industrial Millwright Mechanic and Machinist Program, Joe finished top of his class and is currently employed as a General Machinist Apprentice with ABBA Pumps. Click the video below to see Joe's story.

Nov 09, 2018 20th Anniversary of Celebrating Success: A Success

Our 20th Anniversary of "Celebrating Success" was a success.

Congratulations to client award winners and to all Centre staff on our 20th anniversary!

Nov 05, 2018 Learn how to become an Electrician! - November 21

Join us on Wednesday, November 21 for our 'How Do I Become an Electrician?' Information Session! Register today at: https://becomeanelectrician.eventbrite.ca

Oct 25, 2018 Daisy's Story

"Without the Centre for Skills help, I would not have got this job."Check out this video of Daisy's newcomer story and where she is today.

Oct 22, 2018 Introducing: Centre for Skills Development!

Over the past few months, we have refined our name and visual identity to better reflect our values and organization as a whole. Take a look at our video introducing our new name and look!

Oct 11, 2018 Join us at the Media Resources hiring Event - Thursday, October 25

Join us on Thursday, October 25 for our Media Resources Hiring Event! Join a team with 50 years of experience in manufacturing digital displays, sign installation and large format digital printing. Register today: https://centre-job-fair-media-resources.eventbrite.ca

Sep 26, 2018 NEW! - Subscribe to our Job Board Newsletter!

Subscribe to our new Job Board Newsletter and receive job posting updates directly to your e-mail! To subscribe, visit: http://ow.ly/8HOf30lZ9wg

Sep 21, 2018 Congratulations to our WIST 2018 Scholarship Winners!

Five scholarships were awarded to students who are preparing for a career in the Skilled Trades, and exhibit leadership attributes. Throughout their time at The Centre, they demonstrated exemplary effort both academically and technically, and will be using their award specifically towards the purchase of tools or apply it to their tool fee.

Sep 10, 2018 Instructor Highlights - Why Richard Loves the Skilled Trades!

Richard Santamaria had been working in the Tool & Die industry for years before he started teaching The Centre’s Millwright & Machinist program, with over 23 years of experience under his belt.

Sep 05, 2018 Job Seeker Support Group - Biweekly Starting September 10!

Are you currently unemployed and having trouble finding a job? Join our Job Seekers Support Group and network with others in a similar situation! Biweekly, every other Monday starting September 10.

Aug 27, 2018 Interested in Learning English This Summer? Join our ESL Summer Classes!

Register today for our September 5 Medican Staffing Hiring Event, which has approximately 200 positions available for hire! To register: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/medicantop-notch-employment-services-hiring-event-tickets-49045958783

Jul 30, 2018 Tiny Home RV Program - Frontline Home Inspectors & Building Consultants

The Centre for Skills Development & Training is honoured to have the generous support of Frontline Home Inspectors & Building Consultants as one of the sponsors for our Tiny Home RV Program!

Jul 27, 2018 Journeypersons and Apprenticeship Trainers Coaching and Mentoring Workshop - Register Today!

Journeypersons and Apprenticeship Trainers who are looking to provide or currently providing apprenticeship training can register to attend the workshop here.

Jul 24, 2018 Tiny Home RV Program - Rockwool

The Centre for Skills Development & Training is honoured to have the generous support of Rockwool as one of the sponsors for our Tiny Home RV Program!

Jul 19, 2018 Tiny Home RV Program - Brandon Laidman Plumbing Inc.

The Centre for Skills Development & Training is honoured to have the generous support of Brandon Laidman Plumbing Inc. as one of the sponsors for our Tiny Home RV Program!

Jul 12, 2018 Tiny Home RV Program - Billet Marketing

The Centre for Skills Development & Training is honoured to have the generous support of Billet Marketing as one of the sponsors for our Tiny Home RV Program!

Jul 06, 2018 Tiny Home RV Program - Arriba Contracting

The Centre for Skills Development & Training is honoured to have the generous support of Arriba Contracting as one of the sponsors for our Tiny Home RV Program!

Jul 05, 2018 First Services Hospitality Inc. is Hiring for Multiple Opportunities - Join us July 19!

First Services Hospitality Inc. is recruiting to fill multiple positions for the prestigious Canadian Open at Glen Abbey Golf Club, Oakville. Follow these 3 easy steps to meet the employer on July 19!

Jul 04, 2018 Tiny Home RV Program - GEM Windows

The Centre for Skills Development & Training is honoured to have the generous support of GEM Windows as one of the sponsors for our Tiny Home RV Program!

Jul 03, 2018 Premiering our Tiny Home at the 7th Annual Oakville Ribfest was a Success!

Rain or shine the 7th Annual Oakville Family Ribfest hosted by Oakville Trafalgar Rotary was a great success, as we excitedly premiered our very first Tiny Home RV!

Jun 20, 2018 Interested in Learning English This Summer? Join our ESL Summer Classes!

With a qualified teacher in a comfortable environment, learn all about the Canadian Culture, common English expresions and practice your language skills in our ESL Summer Classes. Register today!

Jun 06, 2018 Centre Staff and Client Honoured By Newcomer Recognition Awards!

Last night's Newcomer Recognition Awards proved to be a very exciting evening for The Centre, as three of our staff and one client were honoured by The Halton Newcomer Strategy.

Jun 04, 2018 Join us at the Skilled Trades Open House! - June 14

Join us on Thursday, June 14 for our Skilled Trades Open House! Attend this informative event to meet employers, graduates, instructors and job developers in the Skilled Trades industry. Register today at: skilledtradesopenhouse.eventbrite.ca

Jun 01, 2018 Join us at the Spring Job Fair - Wednesday June 13

Meet face to face with multiple companies hiring throughout the Halton and surrounding regions at our Spring Job Fair on Wednesday June 13 at the Burlington Convention Centre! Register at: https://centre-job-fair.eventbrite.ca

May 31, 2018 Tiny Home RV Program - Henry Blueskin VP100 Housewrap

The Centre for Skills Development & Training is honoured to have the generous support of Henry Blueskin VP100 Housewrap as one of the sponsors for our Tiny Home RV Program!

May 24, 2018 The Centre Launches Our Tiny Home RV Program

The Centre for Skills Development & Training in partnership with the Rotary Club of Oakville Trafalgar (RCOT) is proud to announce the launching of our Tiny Home RV program.

Apr 30, 2018 The Centre's Milton Job Fair Was a Success!

Throughout the day, over 300 interested community members bustled inside the Milton Sports Centre to connect with 30+ local employers.

Apr 13, 2018 Apprentices and Employers Working Together – The Centre Launches Their Ontario Adult Apprenticeship Program

In partnership with the Ontario Centre for Workforce Innovation (OCWI), The Centre for Skills Development & Training (The Centre) is implementing and evaluating a new model of shared apprenticeship called the Ontario Adult Apprenticeship Program (OAAP).

Mar 23, 2018 Newcomers to Start New Chapter

On March 23, we celebrated the graduation ceremony for our first Home Renovation for Newcomers class.

Mar 09, 2018 IKEA donation to The Centre for WIST space

Celebrating International Women's Day this week, IKEA Canada works towards building a more inclusive and equal world through their partnership with Canadian Women's Foundation.

Mar 07, 2018 The Centre receives two Diamond Readers’ Choice Awards

For the fourth year in a row, The Centre for Skills Development & Training has been awarded in two categories of the Burlington Post Readers’ Choice Awards.

Feb 25, 2018 The Centre Showing Our Olympic Spirit – Go Canada Go!

After John Oliver, Member of Parliament for Oakville announced his exciting contest , asking offices, families, friends and organizations of all kinds to show their Olympic spirit and support of Team Canada, The Centre wanted to show they were up for the challenge!

Feb 25, 2018 Karina Gould, Government of Canada Minister of Democratic Institutions Makes announcement at The Centre about the Canada Learning Bond

When more people can afford post-secondary education, our economy can grow and our middle class can thrive. That is why the Government of Canada is helping more low- and middle-income families save money for their children’s post-secondary education through the Canada Learning Bond.

Feb 13, 2018 New Tiny Homes Program a Win for Workers, Communities, and the Environment

Tiny home communities are proving to be a viable affordable housing solution in many parts of the world. In Canada, the tiny house movement addresses several pressing social issues; access to affordable housing, environmental impact, and now, thanks to the innovative new Tiny Homes program from The Centre for Skills Development & Training, even the employment skills gap.