Pre-Apprenticeship Industrial Mechanic Millwright Program

About the Program

The Pre-Apprenticeship Industrial Mechanic- Millwright Program provides training aligned with the Skilled Trades Ontario Level 1 Industrial Mechanic- Millwright curriculum.

Upon successful completion, graduates will be prepared to pursue apprenticeship opportunities and entry-level employment in the mechanical trades. Many participants may also receive employer sponsorship following their work placement.

Who Can Apply?

People meeting eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply, priority will be given to applicants from groups that are traditionally underrepresented in the skilled trades, including women, Indigenous learners, youth, and individuals living in rural or remote communities. This program is designed to support greater access to skilled trades opportunities by providing participants with the foundational training, certifications, and industry experience needed to take the next step toward a rewarding career as an Industrial Mechanic-Millwright.

Eligibility:

Applicants must:

• Have grade 12 or equivalent 
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be legally eligible to work in Canada
• Resident of Ontario 
• Be able to complete an 8–12 week paid work placement
• Demonstrate an interest in pursuing a career in the skilled trades

Training Locations & Scheduled Intakes:

• Thunder Bay – September 8, 2026
• Kenora – September 8, 2026
• Red Lake- TBD
• Marathon/Geraldton- TBD

What You'll Learn?

Throughout the program, you'll develop practical knowledge and workplace skills in:

• Math upgrading
• Workplace health and safety
• Industrial Mechanic- Millwright technical skills
• Introductory welding
• Workplace readiness and employability
• Paid work placement experience- work placement lengths may vary depending on the needs of the employer.

Program Structure:

Program Cost & Supports

This program is fully funded. There are no tuition or material fees for participants. Required personal protective equipment (PPE), mandatory safety certifications, and eligible participant supports are provided at no cost.

Financial assistance may be available to eligible participants to help reduce barriers to successful participation in the program.

Support funding is assessed on a case-by-case basis and may include a weekly participant stipend of up to $100, with total financial assistance of up to $2,000 per participant. Funding is subject to eligibility and the availability of program resources.

What You'll Receive?

Graduates who successfully complete the program will receive:

• Confederation College Recognition of Achievement
• Industry-standard safety certifications, including:
  • First Aid/CPR
  • WHMIS
  • Working at Heights
  • Confined Space
  • Occupational Health and Safety (OHSA)
  • Additional certifications as required
• Introductory welding training
• Paid work placement experience
• Documentation of training and placement hours to support future apprenticeship registration

Note: Only registered apprentices receive an official Level 1 transcript from Skilled Trades Ontario. Pre-apprenticeship participants receive a Recognition of Achievement from Confederation College.

Application Process:

Training begins September 8, 2026 in Thunder Bay and Kenora.

Apply now to have your application screened with offer of admission going out in August. 

• Industrial Mechanic (Millwright) Application Form
   

Employer Partnership Opportunities:

Employers are essential partners in developing the next generation of skilled Industrial Millwright apprentices. Confederation College invites employers to partner with the Pre-Apprenticeship Industrial Millwright Program by providing a paid employer placement opportunity for participants who successfully complete the in-class training component.

During the paid employer placement, participants become employees of the host organization for the duration of the placement and are placed on the employer’s payroll. Participants must be compensated at a minimum of the applicable provincial minimum wage, with employers having the opportunity to provide wages above this rate based on their organizational practices and the participant’s skills and experience.

Eligible employers may have access to wage subsidy support to assist with the cost of hiring and training a participant. Wage subsidies are subject to eligibility requirements, available funding, and program guidelines.

Benefits of Participating

• Access to motivated individuals who have completed foundational Industrial Millwright training and required safety certifications.
• An opportunity to assess potential employees before making hiring decisions.
• Contribute to workforce development within Northwestern Ontario and support the growth of the skilled trades.
• Build relationships with Confederation College and participate in developing future talent for your organization.

Confederation College will work closely with employers throughout the placement process, coordinating placement arrangements, providing ongoing support, and serving as the primary point of contact to ensure a successful experience for both the employer and the participant.

Employers interested in hosting a work placement or learning more about partnership opportunities are encouraged to contact the Workforce Development team at Confederation College.

• Employer Interest Form
   

Questions?

For questions about the program or application process, contact [email protected].