YMCA expands skilled trades program for newcomers across Ontario

The YMCA-YWCA of the National Capital Region is expanding a skilled trades program in five additional regions across Ontario, the organization announced on Sept. 7.

'Power of Trades' is a program that prepares immigrants for opportunities in Ontario's skilled trades. It was created in 2011 to connect new Canadians with the information they need to consider a career in the trades, along with help accessing the skills training required to take the next step in their career path. 

“Canada continues to be a destination of choice for diverse individuals who are looking for a new place to work, study and build their lives,” says Marie-France Lalonde, parliamentary secretary to the minister of immigration, refugees and citizenship. “When newcomers successfully integrate into our communities and the Canadian job market, all of us share in the benefits. This is why organizations like the 'Y' play an important role, and I am confident the expansion of the 'Power of Trades' program will have a positive impact filling critical labour market shortages and giving newcomers new opportunities.”

The program is offered to participants at no cost through funding from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada. In the Ottawa region, the program also receives support from the United Way.

Power of trades includes four to six weeks of classroom training covering a wide range of topics including information about the skilled trades and apprenticeships, Ontario labour laws and regulations, accessing certifications and academic upgrades, resume and interview preparation, and connection to hands-on skills training programs.

Since its inception, 'Power of Trades' has successfully graduated 536 participants in Ottawa, served over 1000 clients through individual consultations, and has averaged an 86.6 per cent employed rate year over year.