The YMCA of the National Capital Region in Ottawa is taking initiative in trades training, partnering with the construction industry to alleviate gaps in the skilled labour pool and provide newcomers to Canada with thriving careers.
By Jessica Kirby
The YMCA of the National Capital Region’s (NCR) pre-employment and skilled trades training programs have been supporting individuals and employers for over 15 years. Over that time, the programs have evolved in response to Ontario’s changing labour market, expanding from foundational employment preparation into specialized trades training that reflects current industry needs, workforce shortages, and emerging areas such as residential renovation and energy-efficient construction.
“These programs build on a long-standing commitment to workforce development, newcomer integration, and employer partnership, ensuring participants are prepared for sustainable careers while helping strengthen the skilled trades sector across the region,” says Katie Sexton, vice-president, Employment & Newcomer Services and Camps.
The development of the skilled trades training programs was driven by two intersecting realities: a critical shortage of skilled trades workers across Ontario, and the underutilization of talent among newcomers and job seekers facing barriers to employment. The YMCA NCR recognized an opportunity to connect workforce development with industry needs, while also strengthening economic inclusion and community resilience.
“Many individuals arrive with relevant experience or transferable skills but lack familiarity with Ontario’s apprenticeship system, certification requirements, and employer expectations,” Sexton says. “The programs were designed to bridge this gap, helping participants translate their skills into the Canadian labour market while supporting employers who are seeking prepared, safety-trained, and job-ready workers.”
Power of Trades
The Power of Trades is a four-week pre-employment training program for newcomers to Canada, providing information and practical advice about understanding the apprenticeship process in Ontario, labour laws and regulations in Ontario, understanding what Canadian trades employers look for in a new employee and resume and interview preparation. After completing the four-week classroom training, participants take part in a three-week work placement in the skilled trade of their choice.
“This program is Ideal for newcomers to Canada interested in exploring and entering a career in the skilled trades,” Sexton says. “Participants must be permanent residents or convention refugees, at least 18 years old, legally entitled to work in Canada, and Ontario residents. The program is perfect for those seeking foundational knowledge of apprenticeship, certification, workplace expectations, and a short work placement in a trade of their choice.”
Pre-Apprenticeship Home Renovation Training Program
This 12-week program provides technical training in home renovation including exterior sheathing, framing, and installation of subfloor, windows, doors, trim, and siding. Participants receive job search and pre-employment support to help secure 8 to 12 weeks of paid work placement with local employers; technical, academic, and pre-employment preparation; and textbooks, toolkits, and safety equipment. Further training includes First Aid & CPR-C, Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS), Working at Heights, Worker Health and Safety Awareness in 4 Steps, and entrepreneurship and financial literacy training.
The program is ideal for individuals ready to commit to hands-on technical training and pursue employment in residential construction and renovation trades, including carpentry, drywall, tile, and painting. Candidates must be Ontario residents, legally entitled to work and study in Canada, proficient in English, and 16 years or older (with those under 18 holding a high school diploma or equivalent).
YMCA Ottawa Home Builders Training Program
Designed for participants interested in energy-efficient home renovation and green construction, the Home Builders Training Program provides participants with hands-on training to upskill and boost productivity. Over eight weeks, participants receive technical training in exterior sheathing and framing for high-performance homes; advanced insulation materials, air sealing, and moisture control; and green construction principles. The program offers job search and pre-employment support to help participants secure four to six weeks of paid work placement; job readiness and academic preparation; free textbooks, personal toolkits, and PPE; and industry certifications such as First Aid & CPR-C, WHMIS, Working at Heights, and Worker Health & Safety Awareness in 4 Steps.
Candidates must be 18 years or older, Ontario residents, legally entitled to work, and have high English proficiency.
“Over the past 15 years, the YMCA NCR’s Trades programs have supported 20,447 individuals in preparing for and entering careers in the skilled trades,” Sexton says. “These programs are backed by strong industry collaboration, with 511 construction employers and more than 800 employer partners supporting training, placements, and workforce integration across the trades sector.”
According to pre- and post-program surveys, participants report significant growth in employability and workplace readiness. Over 93 percent rated themselves as skilled or highly skilled in resume writing, interview preparation, teamwork, and problem-solving, while 100 percent felt confident in time management and communication.
“Participants also expressed strong familiarity with Ontario’s skilled trades system and workplace communication standards, reflecting the programs’ effectiveness in building both technical knowledge and workplace confidence,” Sexton adds.
The YMCA NCR’s Trades programs also advance equity and inclusion within the construction workforce. On average, 88.8 percent of participants are newcomers, and 96 percent come from underrepresented groups, highlighting the programs’ success in reaching talent that is often overlooked but essential to Ontario’s skilled trades labour needs.
“One graduate shared: ‘The program gave me the knowledge, confidence, and connections I needed to move forward in my career,’” Sexton says. “Stories like this demonstrate how the programs not only build skills but also empower participants to take meaningful steps toward sustainable employment.”
While these programs may not specifically have a mechanical insulation component, they provide a clear example of what is possible when industry partners with community organizations for mutual benefit. TIAC contractors are encouraged to engage with their local YMCA to discuss partnership opportunities.
“The YMCA NCR encourages contractors and construction employers to engage with our trades programs not only as hiring partners, but as active collaborators in workforce development,” Sexton says. “In addition to offering paid work placements, mentorship opportunities, and employment pathways for program participants, we are also expanding incumbent worker training designed to help employers upskill their existing workforce. These opportunities strengthen technical skills, improve productivity, and ensure teams stay current with evolving industry standards.”
Employer engagement is essential to shaping relevant training that responds directly to on-the-job needs. One local employer shared their experience: “I’m so thankful to the YMCA for their assistance. Working with their trades program participants has helped us bring on skilled, motivated workers who are prepared for the realities of the job site.”
Learn more about these programs at:
ymcaottawa.ca/programs-services/employment-services/pre-employment-and-skills-training
Power of Trades | This program is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Pre-Apprenticeship Home Renovation Training | This program is funded by Government of Ontario
Home Builders Training Program | This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario. ▪
