College Isn’t the Only Way. The Trades Are Wide Open.
You don't need a degree to experience career success.
Some people prefer to get paid to learn, enter the workforce faster, and enjoy the perks of always being in demand.
No Trade Offs.
Just Trade Ups.
Electricians, carpenters, plumbers, HVAC techs — every trade plays a key role. Each one has its own path, from hands-on apprenticeships to in-school programs.
The cool part? You don’t have to wait until after graduation. You can start in Grade 10 through the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP), earning credits while getting real experience on job sites. After high school, you can work as a labourer, take on an internship, or go straight into an apprenticeship. There’s no one-size-fits-all path — just options that match your goals, strengths, and style.
HOME BUILDING TRADES
Cabinet Installer
Cabinet Installers have an eye for detail and the skill to turn simple boxes into stunning kitchens.
Cabinet Installer
If you enjoy hands-on work, creativity, and seeing fast results, cabinet installing could be a great fit. You get to move from project to project, create beautiful spaces, and keep things fresh — no boring days here.
Carpenter
Carpenters build the framework, walls, stairs, and structures of a home.
Carpenter
Carpenters are builders at heart—creative, practical, and hands-on. If you like making things come to life and working with tools, this trade delivers from blueprint to build.
Concrete Finisher
Concrete finishers pour, level, and shape the concrete used in basements, walkways and driveways.
Concrete Finisher
Concrete work is for people who are strong, focused, and enjoy seeing instant progress. If you enjoy early mornings outdoors, staying physically active, and muddy boots this role puts you at the base of every home.
Construction Manager
Construction managers oversee timelines, budgets, and teams to get homes built right.
Construction Manager
Most construction managers start in trades before progressing into this position. If you're organized, a natural leader, and like keeping everything on track, this role puts you in control. It’s ideal for big-picture thinkers who still appreciate the details.
Cribber
Cribbers build the wooden forms that shape concrete foundations.
Cribber
Cribbing is for early risers who like hard work, team environments, and watching homes rise from the ground up. It suits people who want to be there from the very first step of the build.
Drywaller
Drywallers measure, cut and install panels to fit in and around specific spaces inside homes.
Drywaller
This trade is great for those with a steady hand, a strong work ethic, and a drive for clean finishes. If you enjoy fast-paced work where you can see the skeleton of a house take shape, drywall is where it's at.
Electrician
Electricians install and power up everything from lights to outlets, making sure homes run safely and smoothly.
Electrician
Electricians need to be good at problem solving, working with their hands, and understanding how things like circuits and wiring work.
Finishing Carpenter
Finish carpenters handle the final touches in a new home — from baseboards to custom closets and stair railings.
Flooring Installer
These professionals finish a home's interior with a variety of materials from hardwood to ceramic, porcelain, stone, carpet, cork, rubber and more.
Flooring Installer
This trade is great for people with an eye for patterns, textures, patience and precision.
Framer
Framers assemble the skeleton of a home using wood or steel.
Framer
Framers are fast, focused, and love seeing progress go up in real time. If you’re strong, coordinated, and love outdoor work, framing puts you at the core of every build.
Gasfitter
Gasfitters install and service gas lines for heating and appliances.
Gasfitter
Gasfitters are precise, cautious, and work by the book—because safety matters. It’s a great trade for responsible people who like steady, high-demand work.
Heavy Equipment Operator
Heavy equipment operators run the big machines that move earth and materials.
Heavy Equipment Operator
If you love machines and want to be in the driver's seat—literally—this job is for you. It suits people who are coordinated, calm under pressure, and enjoy working outdoors.
Interior Finisher
Interior finishers handle the final touches, including trim, doors, railings, and more.
Interior Finisher
If you have an eye for detail and like seeing a space come together, this trade is where rough construction turns into polished living. It’s perfect for people who like tidy, satisfying work.
Insulation Installer
Insulation installers make homes energy-efficient by adding thermal barriers.
Insulation Installer
This trade is for people who like physical work and don’t mind tight spaces. It’s a key job that helps homeowners stay warm in winter and cool in summer, without sky-high energy bills.
Masonry Worker
Masons work with bricks, blocks, and stone to build and apply masonry products to the exteriors and interiors of homes.
Painter
Painters bring walls, trim, and exteriors to life with colour and precision.
Painter
Painters are patient, clean, and have a steady hand. If you enjoy creative work and making spaces feel complete, painting is a rewarding, low-barrier way to break into the trades.
PLUMBER
Plumbers install and repair the pipes that keep water flowing in and out of a home.
PLUMBER
If you’re practical, methodical, and like solving messy problems, plumbing is always in demand. It’s a trade where your work really matters—and it pays off with stability and strong wages.
Refrigeration & A/C Mechanic
These tradespeople install and maintain the systems that keep homes cool and comfortable.
Refrigeration & A/C Mechanic
If you’re mechanically minded and like hands-on problem solving, this is a cool career—literally. It’s ideal for people who enjoy precision work and want to master in-demand systems.
Roofer
Roofers protect homes from the elements by installing shingles and other materials on rooftops.
Roofer
This is outdoor work for people who don’t mind heights, are safety focused, and enjoy seeing the impact from the street.
Sheet Metal Worker
Sheet metal workers fabricate and install ductwork for heating and ventilation.
Sheet Metal Worker
Great for people who enjoy working with tools and metal, this trade combines math, precision, and hands-on fabrication. It suits those who want to build systems that keep homes breathing.
Siding Installer
Siding installers put the finishing layer on the outside of homes, protecting them from weather and boosting curb appeal.
Tile Setter
Tile setters lay ceramic, stone, and glass tiles for walls and floors.
Tile Setter
Tile setting is detail-heavy work for people with an eye for patterns and patience. If you’re artistic and enjoy transforming kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways.
Trades Helper
Trades helpers support skilled trades by preparing sites, tools, and materials.
Trades Helper
This is the perfect starting point if you’re not sure where to begin. You’ll get exposure to multiple trades, learn on the job, and figure out which path fits you best.
Weeping Tile Installer
Weeping tile installers help prevent basement flooding by managing water drainage underground.
Weeping Tile Installer
This job suits hands-on workers who don’t mind getting dirty to protect what’s above ground. If you like practical, behind-the-scenes work.
BENEFITS OF THE TRADES
In home building trades , you don’t have to choose between a steady paycheck, a meaningful career, and a future you’re proud of — you get it all!
Here are a few reasons why a career in residential construction comes with no trade offs.
Here are a few reasons why a career in residential construction comes with no trade offs.
Camaraderie:
You’ll be part of a tight-knit crew where mentorship is built into the job, and everyone learns by working together.
In-Demand:
Skilled trades are always needed, offering you long-term job security and steady opportunities across the province.
Earn While You Learn:
Start working and getting paid right away, fast-tracking your path to financial independence.
Meaningful Work:
Build things people depend on every day and go home knowing you made a real impact.
Career Advancement:
Promotions come from skill, not politics. How far you go is entirely up to you.
Grants and Support:
With financial support and low training costs, you can launch your career without the burden of student debt.
Flexibility:
Many skills are transferable, making it easier to pivot into a new trade or specialization if someone is looking for a change or new challenge in their career path.
