Skilled Trades Programs and Careers in the Trades

Think you know what a career in trades is all about?

Time to think again.

While plumbing, auto mechanic, carpentry and welding immediately come to mind, the skilled trades are actually so much more diverse – think everything from hairstylist and esthetician to baker, computer hardware technician, educational assistant, network cabling technician, special events coordinator, and more, all leading to rewarding, lucrative careers. With over 150 designated trades in Ontario to choose from, no matter what your passion is, there's a trade for you.

For more information, you can visit our College Trades website.

a happy chef cooking in a kitchen with multiple pots and pans full of food

Why Choose a Skilled Trades Program?

If you’re interested in the trades, a college program is a great place to start working toward your career. Not only will you learn from skilled and experienced tradespeople, you’ll also benefit from a network of industry connections that can lead to apprenticeships and jobs. Many college trades programs also combine apprenticeship training or co-ops right into the diploma programs, so you can complete the in-school requirements of an apprenticeship as part of your program.

If you’re looking to explore the trades but aren’t quite sure which specialty you want to choose, you may want to consider a pre-trades program. These programs will expose you to a variety of trades, including construction, electrical and machining, and will also help you develop complementary skills, such as mathematics for the trades, drafting, and employment readiness.

Picture yourself...in a future you built.

They build our homes, schools and workplaces, they manufacture and repair our vehicles, they maintain the hydro systems that keep the lights on, they cook your meal when you go to a restaurant, and so much more. The work of skilled tradespeople keeps our cities – and our lives – moving. In fact, it's estimated that by 2025, 40 percent of all occupations will be in skilled trades.

Be a part of this booming industry. See all that the skilled trades have to offer.

a trades carpenter measuring out pieces of wood to cut