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According to the Ontario Ministry of Education data "the majority of the student population in Ontario does not go on to study at a university or college upon leaving high school". Many of them choose jobs in skilled trades. Skilled workers are involved in many aspects of Ontario's economy. And they are in high demand. Jobs in skilled trades are challenging and pay well. The best way to start a career in skilled trades is through hands-on training in a specific workplace. This kind of training is called apprenticeship. Find out about opportunities, choices and steps to take if you are interested in learning a trade.

1. Apprenticeships
www.ilc.org/cfmx/CM/Apprenticeship index.cfm?Menu_ID_Sel=5999&Lang_Sel=1   Ramp Favourite!
This section has just about everything you need to know about apprenticeship: what it is, whether it's right for you, and what you can do right now to start a lucrative, rewarding career in the skilled trades.
Publisher - TV Ontario

2. Careers in Construction
www.183training.com/
If you are interested in becoming an apprentice in the construction business, check out this website by Local 183.
Publisher - Universal Workers Union Local 183

Toronto site

3. Destination 2020: Build your work skills
www.lifework.ca/lifework/pr_destination.html
Discover what skills you have and how skills are key to finding that perfect job in your future. Check out the activities you do each day and discover how they are building the skills you need for the job you want. Match your personality characterisitcs and your favourite interests to the job of your future. Travel through time to the job of your dreams. So fasten your seatbelt and get ready for a multidimensional ride en route to 2020!
Publisher - Canada Career Consortium

Canadian site

4. HomeBuildingCareers.com
www.homebuildingcareers.com/index.htm
Great introduction to the skilled trades in residential building for young adults considering their career choices. Find out about education, training, apprenticeships, safety, and wages. Get information about over 25 specific trades, such as Brick and Stone Mason, Crane Operator, Roofer, Plumber, Electrician, and more.
Publisher - Greater Toronto Home Builders' Association

Toronto site

5. Looking for Training?
www.onestep.on.ca/looking/appren.cfm
Great resources listed on this website about apprenticeship and internship programs.
Publisher - ONESTEP: Apprentice and Internship Resources

Canadian site

6. Pathways for Success
www.tdsb.on.ca/_site/ViewItem.asp?siteid=110
The Pathways initiative provides a range of program and learning opportunities to prepare students for success whatever their chosen destination pathway. There are following destination pathways: Apprenticeship, College, University,and Workplace.
Publisher - Toronto District School Board

Toronto site

7. Plastics Industry - Careers and Training Information
www.cpsc-ccsp.ca/index.php?lang=e
Overview of careers in trades related to the plastics industry. Don't forget to check out the Skills Database, and Career Information for Youth.
Publisher - Canadian Plastics Sector Council

  • English    French   
    • Canadian sitesite with video

    8. The Red Seal program/ The Interprovincial Standards
    www.red-seal.ca/
    This website provides you with information about the Red Seal program, apprenticeship, trades, and certification within each province.
    Publisher - Canada. Human Resources and Skills Development

  • English    French   
    • Canadian sitesite with video

    9. School to Work Programs
    www.tcdsb.org/curriculum/schooltowork.htm
    Programs that permit students to register as apprentices and accumulate hours and experience towards a Certificate of Qualification in a skilled profession while earning credits towards their high school graduation diploma. These programs provide students with real-life opportunities to make connections between theory and practice.
    Publisher - Toronto Catholic District School Board

    Toronto site

    10. Who cares about skills?
    www.edu.gov.on.ca/skills.html
    This website promotes careers in skilled trades. If you want to work in the skilled trades, we want to help.
    Publisher - Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities/Ministry of Education