Explore Skilled Trades | Get In Gear

Free skilled trades exploration program

Over the course of six weeks, you will engage in hands-on training in construction and manufacturing, working directly with tools and materials to gain practical, real-world experience. Additionally, you will participate in workshops to explore various trades, meet industry professionals, and learn about different career paths within these fields.

Program Features

Full-time, Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM.
Receive a living allowance wage for the six weeks of in-class training, based on attendance.
Entry-level training in the construction and manufacturing industries.
Exposure to other trades, such as electrical, network cabling, masonry, landscaping, etc. (Please note that trades may be substituted based on instructor availability, market employment conditions, and program scheduling.)
Employability workshops and support in finding work placements.

Eligibility Criteria

Must be between the ages of 18 and 29.
Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Must have an interest in finding employment and exploring different career paths.
Must not be enrolled in school full-time or employed full-time.

Employability Workshops

Our employability workshops will help you enhance your resume, master interview techniques, and develop essential job search skills, including guidance on aptitude assessments to better understand your strengths. Whether you're aiming to enter the trades or pursue a different career path, this program is designed to support your success by exploring various options and finding the one that best suits your interests and skills.

Additional workshops include:

Employability Skills Assessment Tool
Financial Literacy
Emotional Literacy
Math
Time Management
Safety and employment certifications

Employment

The goal of the program is to help you get your foot in the door and find meaningful employment. In the Get in Gear Program you can benefit from a supportive learning environment with experienced instructors and mentors dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.

Participate in group sessions to learn all the necessary tools in finding employment
Work 1:1 with our Employment Specialist to customize your job search and find the most suitable career path for you, including updating your resume, getting direction in job search and support with the application and interview process
Network with former students and future employers through organized activities such as guest speaker days and company site visits.

Application Process

Fill out an inquiry form to start the application process. You will receive an email within 24-48 hours containing an in-depth video about the program, outlining its features and goals. Please watch the video in its entirety.
Following the video, complete the formal application. Once your application is submitted, you will be invited to attend an interview with the program team. Select an interview time using the Eventbrite link provided in the email.
Finally, attend the interview.

We are now accepting inquiries for spring 2025

Next session is tentative, pending funding.
Please note that applying does  NOT guarantee the acceptance in the program. Limited spaces available.

INQUIRY FORM

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the program be delivered online or in person?
At this time, the program is scheduled to be in person, with the occasional online period. However, in order to maintain safety of our participants throughout the pandemic, we may adjust the program accordingly.

What is the address of the training facility?
During the program, we may be using 2 different facilities:
Skilled Trades Site: 3335 North Service Rd, Burlington ON
Head Office Site: 3350 South Service Rd, Burlington ON

Is the training facility bus accessible?
Both training facilities are bus accessible, however, please make sure to check but schedules ahead of time.

Is there parking available at the training facility?
There is parking available at both locations.
Skilled Trades Site – Parking is available at the front of the building
Head Office Site – Parking available down the ramp, at the back of the building.

Does the program have a lot of homework?
The GIG Program does not assign any after school homework. Students will get time during program hours to complete any tests/assignments for the different workshops.

How does Centre for Skills help with my job search?
Participants will receive assistance to create a career action plan and connect them to employers. Participants will also have access to a variety of workshops to help them prepare to job search and work in the industry.

Can I be signed on as an apprentice after the program?
Participants receive sufficient skills to begin an entry-level position in either machining or construction, with a company that offers the opportunity for further growth. The goal of the program is to assist participants in finding employment in the trades. Many participants have gone on to completing pre-apprenticeship programs in their trade of choice and/or secure employment, as a path towards apprenticeship.

What does the schedule look like?
The GIG program will include full days in shop and full days in employability skills. A typical week will include a combination of employability skills and in-shop trade specific training. Participants will rotate through the three different trades, fully finishing one trade before moving on to the next.

What will I have to buy vs. what is provided?
As a successful applicant into the program, you will not need to make any personal financial investments. We provide personal protective equipment and tools for use in program, and all participants receive a voucher to purchase safety boots and safety glasses.

Need more information?

Review our frequently asked questions. For more information contact us at anca.nachiu@centreforskills.ca or 905.333.3499 x 354.

Funded by:

GET IN GEAR