Accelerate Your Career in the Construction Sector!

Apply for one of our NEW Construction Career Launch programs.

Advance your career with 100% funded training designed by industry experts to meet the growing demand for skilled workers. The program includes four short 6-week, hands-on training programs that will provide the basic skills to launch your career in Horticulture, Residential Construction, Large Scale Projects and Environmental Sustainability for job-seekers who are unemployed or underemployed and ten, 2-day training programs designed for incumbent workers in the sector.

- Program Location: Base 31 @ 26-343 County Road 22 Picton, ON K0K 2T0 (transportation supports available).
- Eligibility: Review eligibility requirements for each stream (job-seeker & incumbent worker) below.

Job-Seeker Programs

Landscaping & Hardscaping in the Building Environment (Starting July 7)

This hands-on horticulture training program is designed for individuals interested in starting a career in landscaping, gardening, and green space maintenance. Participants will learn foundational skills in plant care, soil management, garden design, and sustainable landscaping practices through practical, real-world projects. The program emphasizes teamwork, communication, and job-site safety, helping learners build both technical and employability skills. No prior experience is needed, just a willingness to work outdoors and a passion for plants. A Certificate of Achievement will be awarded upon successful completion. Duration: 6 weeks, Mon-Fri 9-4 pm

Construction – Large Scale Projects (Starting July 21)

This immersive training program introduces participants to the core skills and practices used in commercial-grade construction. Through hands-on experience, learners will explore concrete forming, masonry, ICF systems, steel stud framing, and roofing techniques, mirroring real-world large-scale construction projects. The program also covers essential topics such as safety, material handling, site layout, and project coordination. Ideal for those looking to start a career in the construction industry, this program offers practical skills, industry exposure, and a Certificate of Achievement upon completion. No prior experience required. Duration: 6 weeks, Mon-Fri 9-4 pm

Residential Construction (Starting August 4)

This hands-on training program is designed to introduce job seekers to the core skills needed for entry-level work in residential construction. Over the six weeks, participants will take part in a hands-on project while learning key concepts such as blueprint reading, framing, roofing, insulation, finishing, and safe tool use. The program emphasizes real-world experience, teamwork, and jobsite safety, all delivered by industry-experienced instructors. No prior construction experience is required. Graduates will leave with a Certificate of Achievement and the practical knowledge needed to confidently pursue opportunities in the construction trades. Duration: 6 weeks, Mon-Fri 9-4 pm

Environmental Sustainability in Construction & Manufacturing (Starting August 18)

This 6-week, hands-on environmental science program introduces job seekers to foundational topics in sustainability, climate change, water systems, environmental assessments, and natural product extraction. Designed for participants with no prior experience, the course blends classroom learning with outdoor and lab-style activities to build real-world skills. Learners will explore how ecosystems function, how to measure and manage water flow in local watersheds, how to conduct a basic environmental site assessment, and how natural materials are extracted. Duration: 6 weeks, Mon-Fri 9-4 pm

Job-Seeker Eligibility

- - Unemployed or working less than 20 hours per week
  - 15 years of age or older
  - Not participating in full-time training or education
  - Poor employment history, such as long-term unemployment, underemployment, or precariously employed, including interruptions in work history
  - Low-skilled or require essential skills training or upgrading
  - Interested in pursuing a career in the Construction Sector
  - Reside/Live in an approved region (Hastings County, Prince Edward County, Northumberland County, Lennox & Addington County)

Incumbent Worker Programs

Working at Heights (Sept 29-30, 2025)

This two-day course begins with a morning of teamwork and leadership exercises, followed by Ontario’s mandatory Working at Heights training. Designed for both new and experienced workers, this program equips participants with the knowledge and skills needed to work safely in elevated environments.

Delivered in compliance with Ontario’s WAH Program Standard, the course covers fall prevention, equipment inspection, hazard recognition, and emergency planning. Participants will gain hands-on experience using harnesses and fall protection systems, while learning to identify surface fall risks and implement safe work practices. Ideal for individuals seeking employment or advancement in construction, maintenance, and other height-related industries.

Confined Space Awareness & Entry Training (Oct 2-3, 2025)

This two-day program begins with a morning of teamwork and leadership exercises, followed by comprehensive training in confined space safety. Designed for workers in high-risk environments such as tanks, silos, and sewers, this course provides essential knowledge on hazard recognition, entry procedures, atmospheric monitoring, and emergency response.

Delivered in partnership with Safety Guys, the program combines classroom theory with hands-on practice. Participants will gain experience using PPE, gas monitors, and tripods, and will engage in vertical and side-entry simulations. Ideal for individuals entering or working around confined spaces in industrial, construction, or municipal settings.

Intro to Facility Management (Oct 6-7, 2025)

This two-day course begins with a morning of teamwork and leadership exercises, followed by an introduction to core facility management principles. Topics include maintenance planning, safety compliance, space utilization, sustainability practices, and industry technologies. Participants will also complete a hands-on facility assessment and explore career pathways and certifications. Ideal for those new to the field or exploring facility-related roles.

Intro to Skilled Trades (Oct 9-10, 2025)

This two-day introductory course begins with a morning of teamwork and leadership exercises, followed by an engaging overview of the skilled trades. Participants will explore careers in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, welding, and HVAC, while learning about job site safety, tool use, blueprint reading, and materials. The course includes hands-on stations to build foundational skills and concludes with a group reflection on potential career pathways. Ideal for individuals considering a future in the trades.

Intro to Drone Operator (Oct 13-14, 2025)

This two-day introductory course begins with a morning of teamwork and leadership exercises, followed by a comprehensive overview of drone operation. Participants will learn about drone types, components, safety regulations, and flight planning. The course includes hands-on practice in a controlled outdoor setting and prepares learners for next steps in licensing and certification. Ideal for those interested in drone careers in fields such as construction, agriculture, and surveying.

Intro to Land Surveying (Oct 16-17, 2025)

This two-day course begins with a morning of teamwork and leadership exercises, followed by a practical introduction to the land surveying profession. Participants will explore survey types, tools, and data analysis techniques before applying their skills during a full day of hands-on fieldwork using GPS, levels, and total stations. The course concludes with a review of career pathways and industry opportunities—ideal for those interested in surveying, construction, or geomatics.

Intro to Welding (Oct 20-21, 2025)

This two-day course begins with a morning of teamwork and leadership exercises, followed by an introduction to welding theory, safety, and equipment. Participants will explore MIG, TIG, and Stick welding methods, proper PPE use, and basic shop practices. The second day features hands-on training in arc striking, bead running, and simple joint techniques. Ideal for beginners looking to explore welding as a career or trade pathway.

Intro to Renewable Energy Systems (Oct 23-24, 2025)

This two-day course begins with a morning of teamwork and leadership exercises, followed by an introduction to residential renewable energy systems. Participants will learn the fundamentals of solar and wind power, hybrid systems, and energy storage options for the home. The program also covers system design, installation considerations, financial incentives, and regulatory factors. Ideal for individuals interested in sustainable energy solutions.

Intro to Zero Waste Construction: The Circular Economy Using Eco-Friendly Materials (Oct 27-28, 2025)

This two-day course begins with a morning of teamwork and leadership exercises, followed by an in-depth exploration of zero waste principles and the circular economy. Participants will learn how to assess waste streams, evaluate eco-friendly materials, and implement sustainable practices in homes, schools, and businesses. Through hands-on workshops and interactive case studies, the course offers practical tools and strategies for reducing environmental impact and promoting circular design. Ideal for individuals and organizations committed to sustainability and responsible resource use.

Basic Finishing Techniques (Oct 30-31, 2025)

This two-day course begins with a morning of teamwork and leadership exercises, followed by hands-on training in essential finishing techniques. Participants will learn how to prepare surfaces, cut and install trim, and apply a variety of finishes using proper tools and methods. With a focus on safety, precision, and attention to detail, this course is ideal for individuals exploring entry-level skills in residential finishing, woodworking, or home improvement.

Incumbent Worker Eligibility

- - Employed or Pursuing a Career in the Construction Sector
  - 15 years of age or older
  - Reside/Live in an approved region (Hastings County, Prince Edward County, Northumberland County, Lennox & Addington County)

Construction Career Launch Program