Tips for Getting Young People in Ontario, Canada Into the Trades and Technologies

Ontario boasts a wide array of career opportunities in the skilled trades and technologies. Within this diverse landscape, the government has officially designated 144 occupations as skilled trades, covering industries such as mechanical, electrical, automotive and manufacturing, among others.

If your child is interested in pursuing a career in the trades, Skills Ontario has provided valuable tips to assist them in navigating this path and acquiring the necessary skills and experiences to thrive in the industry.

For Elementary School Students

• Enroll in a Skills Ontario week-long summer camp at skillsontario.com/camp. The camps offer hands-on activities in skilled trades and technology, allowing grade seven and eight students to explore diverse career paths and develop essential workplace soft skills.
• Grade seven and eight classes can participate in an Elementary Career Awareness Workshop. The workshops offer hands-on experiences in Ontario’s recognized skilled trade sectors: Construction, Industrial, Motive Power and Service, as well as technology.
• Parents can discover skilled trade and technology career options through the Skills Ontario App. The app includes an aptitude quiz to help students match their interests with suitable skilled trade careers. It also provides links to trade organizations, information on employment and scholarship opportunities.

For High School Students:

• Students in Grades 11 and 12 can explore apprenticeship options in skilled trade careers by consulting their guidance counsellor or the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) coordinator at their school.
• Students can enroll in trades courses offered at their school and plan to participate in the Skills Ontario Competition – Secondary Division.
• A wealth of online resources is available for students. Skills Ontario has a YouTube channel featuring a diverse library of videos showcasing past events and discussing skilled trade careers with professionals.
• Volunteering with Skills Ontario provides students with valuable experience, knowledge and the opportunity to build relationships that could potentially lead to job opportunities. To inquire about volunteer opportunities, please email: info@skillsontario.com.

For College/University Students:

• College students considering a career in the skilled trades and technologies should consult with their academic advisor to explore the available programs at their institution.
• Students who are currently enrolled in a trades or technology program can participate in the Skills Ontario Competition - Post-Secondary Division. The competition provides a platform to showcase skills and connect with potential employers.
• Networking has proven to be instrumental in helping many post-secondary students secure job opportunities throughout their careers after graduating. Students who competed in the Skills Ontario Competition can request to join the Skills Ontario Alumni network on LinkedIn to learn more about job opportunities, volunteer opportunities, or connect with other skilled trade professionals.
• Skills Ontario offers a podcast called ‘Skills Ontario Trades & Tech Talk Podcast’, the podcast covers over 140 skilled trade and technology careers, as well as topics such as post-secondary education, apprenticeships, wage and more.