In partnership with the Government of Ontario, Canadian Women’s Foundation and RESCON (Residential Construction Council of Ontario), the Centre for Skills Development offers the Enhanced General Carpentry for Women - Women in Skilled Trades (WIST) program. This free program provides eligible low income women with the tools and training to launch a career in the Construction Industry. The program is focused on Essential Skills training to support women in transitioning into careers in the construction industry.
Career Paths Upon Program Completion
- Carpenter
- Carpet Installer
- Estimator
- Fencer/Fence Erector
- Flooring Installer
- Foreman
- Insulation Worker
- Landscaper
- Painter
- Plasterer
- Roofer
- Framer
- Window and Doors Installer
We are now accepting applications for WIST programs in 2024
Please note that applying does
NOT guarantee the acceptance in the program. Limited spaces available.
APPLY HERE
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 WIST Program does require some additional independent preparation hours outside of scheduled time for small research assignments and chapter reviews and test preparation.
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?
The WIST program offers many career paths upon completion. If apprenticeship is the path you want to pursue, you can work with your job coach to discuss options available for you based on the employment conditions at that time. The WIST Program curriculum aligns closely with the first year apprentice general carpentry curriculum, preparing you with the skills and confidence to pursue an apprenticeship.
What does the schedule look like?
The WIST program includes a combination of theory and hands on. The beginning of the program will include more theory to ensure safe use of tools and machinery in the shop. As the program progresses, students will get less theory everyday and more shop time, as new content will build upon the theory learnt in previous days.
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 hard hats, work boots and safety glasses, dust masks, textbooks and a tool kit to use during the program and keep after graduation.