Confederation College is delivering training opportunities through the Skills Advance Ontario (SAO) initiative, funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
This initiative is intended to help workers affected by layoffs, economic pressure, tariffs, and changing labour market conditions move toward new employment opportunities through short-term, targeted training.
Training opportunities are being organized based on participant interest and intake numbers, with a target start in June.
Sector-Focused Training
Participants receive essential technical skills training tailored to the needs of local employers and industries:
- Heavy Equipment Operator (excavator, loader, bulldozer)
- Heavy Duty Equipment Technician (HEAVY DUTY EQUIPMENT TECHNICIAN 421A)
- Commercial Driver Training (AZ / DZ)
- Welder (WELDER 456A)
- Electrician – Construction and Maintenance (ELEC 309A)
- Industrial Millwright (MILLWRIGHT 433A)
There is also an option to express interest in other training areas, which may be reviewed based on demand.
Program Details
Each training stream has its own requirements, timelines, and outcomes. Final program delivery will depend on confirmed interest and available seats.
Examples of training pathways include:
DZ / AZ Licensing
Training for individuals seeking commercial driver licensing opportunities.
Heavy Equipment Operator
Training for entry into equipment operation roles in construction and related sectors.
Level 1 Trades Training
Introductory in-school training for individuals interested in skilled trades pathways, including:
- Millwright
- Welding
- Electrical
- Heavy-Duty Equipment Technician
Start Dates:
- Heavy Equipment Operator (July 6 start)
- Ground Person / Equipment Operator (July 27 start)
- Electrician-Construction and Maintenance (309A) (July 27 start)
- AZ/DZ (August 17 & Oct start)
- Industrial Millwright (433A) (Sept 8 start)
- Heavy Duty Equipment Technician (421A) (Sept 14 start)
Note:
Additional programs coming with dates to be determined. Check back here for updates. Participation in Level 1 trades training does not mean automatic apprenticeship registration or guaranteed employment. Extra steps may be required after training, depending on the trade and employer.
Ground Person/Equipment Operator
A Ground Person/Equipment Operator program safely supports the construction, maintenance, and repair of electrical transmission and distribution lines. The program develops workers from entry level ground support roles into qualified equipment operators capable of working in high-risk utility construction environments.
Program Structure:
- Intro to safety
- Fundamentals of the Electrical Industry
- Using Tools and Equipment
- Field Operations and Practical Applications
What Support Is Available
Eligible participants may receive support during training, which may include:
- Full tuition coverage
- Required tools
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Travel support
- $500 per week stipend while in training
Support may vary by program and participant situation.
Skilled Trades Information
For applicants interested in trade pathways, you can learn more about trade certification, apprenticeship, and trade requirements through Skilled Trades Ontario.
Participant Eligibility/Criteria
- minimum of 18 years of age
- resident of Ontario
- legally entitled to work in Canada.
- Is one of the following:
- A Jobseeker and in receipt of EI benefits
- OR Can be a worker on an EI Work-Sharing Agreement
- OR A worker employed with a company affected by tariffs or global market conditions
Please note that some employers may require workplace-specific requirements that may apply to this project or applicable Job Placement (e.g., drug screening, criminal background checks, testing for manual dexterity or strength, technical skillsets).
- Is not enrolled in any full-time education or occupational training
- Is not participating in any other government-funded training intervention that offers support of the same tuition/training fees, training materials, or any other costs that are funded under this Agreement
- Is not employed in a senior management or executive position or have a controlling interest in the business where they are or will be employed.
Important:
Meeting the basic criteria does not guarantee acceptance into a program.
Questions?
For questions about the program or application process, contact [email protected]