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Many people may believe that they have no choice but to go to university and then to spend their days at an office from 9 to 5. While that is great for lots of people, construction is another great and completely different path that can and should be a top choice for many Canadians. A career in residential construction has a long list of advantages and benefits. Construction is an excellent field to work in if you want to learn in a different, more hands-on way, on a wide variety of projects, in a variety of different environments. Construction provides excellent opportunities for advancement and development, and great financial advantages. Starting as an entry-level labourer, you will have the opportunity to master new skills and enhance your career. Those with management ambitions will eventually be able to lead their own construction companies. There are several diverse ways you can start a career in residential construction. Keep in mind that education and training are provincial responsibilities, so the details may vary from one province to another. Becoming a provincially certified skilled tradesperson (also known as a journeyperson) under the apprenticeship system gives you the diversified learning approach of a combination of on-site experience (that you get paid for) and classroom and shop learning in a trade school or college. Typically, you will spend most of your time working on job sites, with 6 to 8 weeks per year in the classroom. At the end of the process, you will need to complete an exam to receive your certificate of qualification. Here are some options to consider:
Apprenticeships are a post-secondary learning option for those who are interested in getting into the skilled trades. As an apprentice, you will likely spend 80% of your time working on a job site with a mentor and the remaining 20% in a classroom. You can be formally sponsored by a contractor or builder who will provide on-site training, guidance, and encouragement. Depending on the trade, certification takes 2 to 5 years, but you are earning income all the way through. In this scenario, you find an employer (who must meet certain requirements) to take you on for the duration of the training period, and then register as an apprentice with your province. In some provinces, you may be sponsored by a local Home Builders’ Association or other industry organization that will help you find an employer to train with. Interested in becoming an apprentice? Click here.
Alternatively, you can start with a post-secondary college education to get some knowledge and practice under your belt before approaching employers to take you on as an apprentice. You might even be able to get started on your apprenticeship training in high school through various supporting programs. Click the button below to explore various programs available across Canada.
Not sure what trade you might like to pursue? Colleges offer short-term courses and programs aimed at introducing students to the trades and exposing them to options. Some colleges hold “trade camps” or “trade samplers” for high school or even younger students.
Get a first-hand look at the industry. You may be able to work in construction during the summer holidays (just as the CEO of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association did!) or through a job placement as part of your school’s curriculum. You can also secure your own employment outside of the apprenticeship system and work to get enough experience while also taking classroom and shop courses. Talk with new home builders, renovators, and trade contractors in your community about employment opportunities.
In the residential construction industry, there are two primary categories of job opportunities for skilled tradespeople. You can work for a trade contractor or directly for a new home builder or renovation contractor.
Trade contractors work on specific projects for new house builders and renovators, as well as providing services to the general public. Many businesses are founded and run by tradespeople who began their careers working for other companies before starting their own business.
If you’re a high school student interested in joining the trades, here are a few tips to help you prepare before joining the industry:
Still not sure where to start? Check our Guide to Getting Hired here.