Careers
Crafting Futures: Exploring Rewarding Careers in the Trades
Launch a skilled trades career with a college program
If you’re interested in skilled trades and technology, a college program is a great place to start working toward your career. Not only will you learn from experienced tradespeople, you’ll also benefit from a network of industry connections that can lead to apprenticeships and jobs.
All the college trades programs in the Find Your Trade section of this website incorporate apprenticeship training so you can complete some of the in-school requirements of an apprenticeship as part of your program.
Start a rewarding career that suits your skills and interests
Check out the following fields in the skilled trades to learn more about potential careers.
Construction
Trades focused on constructing and maintaining residential, industrial, commercial, and institutional buildings.
EXAMPLE CAREERS: carpenter, gasfitter, ironworker, crane operator, drywall finisher, metal fabricator.
Industrial
Trades related to manufacturing, an incredibly diverse sector of the Canadian economy.
EXAMPLE CAREERS: machinist, electrician, precision machinist, robotics engineer, tool and die maker.
Motive Power
Trades focused on transportation and automotive technology.
EXAMPLE CAREERS: mechanic, heavy duty equipment technician, automotive appraiser, parts service clerk.
Service
Trades that involve working closely with people, often in the healthcare, education, real estate, and retail sectors.
EXAMPLE CAREERS: chef, arborist, child and youth worker.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships provide learners with hands-on training and mentorship opportunities. They can also help learners develop a professional network to support a long and vibrant career.
EXAMPLE CAREERS: carpenter, plumber, electrician, glaziers, motive power technician, boilermaker.