Three ways to get started in
the construction industry
Once you’ve discovered what interests you, call up local construction companies and see if you can tour a job site, or call some local unions and ask if they can put you in touch with a journeyperson in your chosen trade so you can ask them all about their job. It pays to meet people in the industry and to learn what the work is like.
Combine on-the-job training with in-class learning
Apprenticeship in the trades is similar to the concept of co-op placement in the non-trades.
Apprenticeship is actually a pretty sweet way to learn. You spend about 20% of your time in school and the other 80% of your time on the job, getting paid, and being mentored by a pro – an experienced journeyperson – who can “show you the ropes.”
- You gain coveted work experience
- Learn the skills you need by actually practicing them in a work setting
- Get paid while you’re doing it
- And come out at the end as a certified tradesperson – assuming you pass your certification exam
Basically, you’re getting paid to learn. How sweet is that?!
Youth Apprenticeship Program
While still in high school, you can test out a trade first to see if you like it through a Youth Apprenticeship Program.
There are even a number of grants available to help you with associated costs.
And, you have the opportunity to get in on the Skills Canada National Competition, where apprentices from across the country compete to see who’s top dog. Winners go on to compete internationally. It’s a pretty big deal. Check out the video HERE. Learn more about the Skills Canada competitions.
Where to get more info on apprenticeships
The Careers in Trades website can answer your questions about apprenticeship and direct you to the apprenticeship office in your district where you can get started.
Additional Resources
- Apprentice Search
- Office to Advance Women Apprentices
- Job Bank
- Skilled Trades Ontario
- Canadian Apprenticeship Forum
Work before choosing a trade-specific apprenticeship to pursue.
Working as a construction labourer can give you a taste for a variety of work before choosing a trade-specific apprenticeship to pursue.
Or maybe additional schooling isn’t for you and you’d just like to jump into the job market. Whatever your situation, here are some tips to help you find a job.
- Most construction firms post job openings on their company website, so check the websites of major contractors in your area or desired work location.
- There are also numerous online job sites where you can search for job openings. Search using terms like “construction labourer” and “construction helper.”
Explore Careers
With more than 50 construction career options, you’re sure to find your perfect fit. Which career is right for you?
Training at colleges, technical institutes and universities
Post-secondary training at colleges, technical institutes and universities
While these programs won’t get you your journeyperson certification, you can gain valuable and useful skills for non-trades construction occupations, or as preparation for apprenticeship training.
Not to be confused with any apprenticeship programs they may offer, these other programs are construction-related technician and technology diploma and degree programs such as electrical engineering technology, building construction technician and powerline technician. Or they could be construction-related business management programs.
Look into your local colleges, technical institutes or universities to see what construction-related programs they offer. Some associations and labour organizations also offer various types of training.
Explore Careers
With more than 50 construction career options, you’re sure to find your perfect fit. Which career is right for you?
Explore Types of Employers
With more than 50 construction career options, you’re sure to find your perfect fit. Which career is right for you?
Explore More
Types of Construction
Your career in the Canadian construction industry can lead you anywhere you want to go.
Types of Employers
Find the right fit for your interests and lifestyle
