Skilled trades subsidized training opportunities
Browse the opportunities below for more information.
Pre-apprenticeship programs
If you’re interested in working in a trade but don’t have the academic skills or experience to secure work and pursue an apprenticeship, consider applying for a pre-apprenticeship program. These fully-funded programs (tuition free, with tools and personal protective equipment (PPE) provided) are offered yearly in different trades. See what's offered and complete the Request more information form to learn about upcoming programs.
ConnectHER
It is predicted that within five years, one in five new jobs in Ontario will be in the skilled trades. Women are encouraged to pursue a career as a tradesperson to address this critical demand.
Are you interested in a career where your hard work is well compensated? Do you like working with your hands, being a creative problem solver, paying attention to detail, and taking pride in being part of a team that constructs our communities, from homes to schools and hospitals?
One of these skilled trades might be right for you. These intensive two-week, trade-specific programs provide a unique opportunity to learn about a trade with the support of a community of female mentors.
ConnectHER: Make A Trade Connection (Plumber)
Plumbers play a critical role in ensuring everyone’s safety and quality of life by providing safe water and waste management systems.
ConnectHER: Make A Trade Connection (Electrician)
Electricians light our homes, power industry, and even charge our cars. Our ever-increasing reliance on electricity is driving the need for skilled electrical workers.
ConnectHER: Make A Trade Connection (Welder)
Welders work with metal and are essential to construction, manufacturing and much more.
ConnectHER: Make A Trade Connection (Carpenter)
Carpenters help build our community by working with wood to construct homes and hospitals and doing new builds or renovations, from the framework to the trim.
Frequently asked questions
How long are the programs?
The ConnectHER programs run for two weeks, full time, Monday to Friday.
What trade can I choose?
Choose from a variety of trades, including electrician, plumber, welder, or carpenter.
When and where are the programs running?
Programs runs at different times at different campuses (complete the Request more information form to learn more).
What will I do in the programs?
- Week 1: you will gain foundational knowledge and hands-on skills using various tools while doing shop projects.
- Week 2: you will go to a safety training provider to earn various safety certifications (such as mandated Working At Heights), which will greatly assist your ability to secure employment.
What will I learn or gain?
- Try out a trade that interests you to see if you want to pursue it as a career, at no cost
- Earn a Conestoga Recognition of Learning and various safety certifications
- Hands-on learning in one of Conestoga's dedicated trade shops
- Your own PPE, at no cost
- Support from licensed tradeswomen and faculty interested in your success
- Knowledge about the skilled trades and the various pathways to related education or employment, including how to prepare yourself academically, and the importance of key employability skills
- Develop a realistic plan to reach your career goals
- Build your confidence to start your journey
Is this program for me?
- Do you identify as female and are 18 or older?
- Are you interested in becoming a skilled tradesperson?
- Are you willing to work hard, show up every day and take advantage of the chance to start learning a trade?
- Are you available for two weeks, full time?
- Are you ready to make a change but need a little help to get started?
What do I need to do?
Complete the Request more information form and we will contact you.