Aziz
The part of the program I found most helpful and engaging was the combination of online workplace language training and the in-person hands-on workshops. The language classes with Natalie were incredibly well-structured—she made every session interactive, informative, and encouraging. Natalie not only taught us industry-specific language, but also created a supportive learning environment where we felt comfortable asking questions and practicing our communication skills.
The in-person workshop was another highlight for me. Getting the chance to work with real tools, learn about construction safety, and applying what we had learned in theory to real tasks was a game-changer. GG (Glen) was amazing during the workshop—he was very knowledgeable, patient, and took the time to make sure each of us understood the tools and safety procedures. He was approachable, respectful, and full of great advice that made me feel empowered. The energy and support from both Natalie and GG made the experience so much more impactful.
Before this program, I was uncertain about where to begin or if I even had a place in the skilled trades industry. I didn’t fully understand the career pathways available, and I lacked knowledge about Canadian standards and expectations. After completing the program, I feel significantly more confident. I now understand the various skilled trades available in Ontario, how to research job opportunities, and how to prepare for them. Natalie’s encouragement and guidance throughout the online portion of the program helped me believe in my abilities, and GG’s practical advice during the workshop gave me the motivation to continue pursuing this path seriously.
The program greatly supported my language development in all areas—speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Natalie’s lessons focused on real-world vocabulary used in construction and skilled trades, which helped me become more fluent and confident in work-related conversations. She also included activities that improved our writing skills, such as practicing emails and writing resumes. Her feedback was always constructive and motivating. The group discussions and presentations helped me improve my speaking skills, while listening to recordings and videos gave me a better understanding of different Canadian accents and workplace instructions. Thanks to Natalie, I now feel better equipped to communicate in English within a trades-related job setting.
Both Natalie and GG were incredibly supportive, professional, and clear in their teaching styles. Natalie was always well-prepared, and she took the time to ensure everyone was following along during the online classes. She was patient and kind, and always offered encouragement, which boosted our confidence. During the in-person sessions, GG was hands-on and always willing to explain things in simple, easy-to-understand ways. He made sure no one felt left behind, and he respected each student’s learning pace. Their dedication made the learning experience enjoyable and stress-free.
The parts of the course that provided the most development for me were the construction theory sessions, the Canadian workplace culture training, and the practical hands-on workshop. Learning about workplace expectations, safety protocols, and how the construction industry works in Canada was eye-opening. Natalie’s sessions on resume writing, job interviews, and Canadian workplace communication really helped prepare me for the job market. GG’s hands-on training gave me real confidence in using tools safely and efficiently. These combined experiences helped me grow not only professionally, but also personally.
The Centre provided excellent support throughout the entire program. From the beginning, they were organized and communicative, making sure we had all the materials and resources we needed to succeed. They were always available to answer questions and provided individual guidance when needed. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of this program and for the support of instructors like Natalie and GG who genuinely care about helping newcomers succeed in the skilled trades.