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Training for a second career can be daunting. First, there is the fact that you have to go back to school, which is terrifying in itself after being in the working world for so long. Then there is the time commitment, deciding which career is best for you and, of course, cost.

The cost of second career training in the skilled trades can be the ultimate deciding factor for many. Despite the prospective wage that waits for you upon completion of your skilled trades education, the upfront investment is high, we get that. Luckily there are funding programs available for adult education courses, it's just a matter of being aware of them and applying.

Second Career Funding

The Second Career Funding strategy is run by the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. The program pays for the training or education residents of Ontario need to get a better job. It provides financial assistance up to $28,000, or more in some cases. The funding for this program help pay for:

• Tuition
• Living expenses
• Help caring for dependents
• Travel & Transportation
• Disability support
• Other living and training costs

If you qualify, you may have some or all of these costs covered by the Second Career Strategy.

Who is Eligible for Second Career?

If you have been laid off in the past 4 years, you may be qualified to receive skills training for in-demand jobs in Ontario, whether or not you have received Employment Insurance. Eligible training will help Second Career qualifiers to move into better jobs (that is, jobs that offer higher wage or better future opportunities) than they could without training. 

To be considered a laid-off worker, you may:

• be currently unemployed
• have taken any interim jobs to make ends meets but are currently unemployed
• have taken any interim jobs to make ends meets and are still in that job
• be on salary continuance (an alternative to pay in lieu of notice or severance. The employees receive their regular salary for a designated period and they may receive some or all of their benefits as well)
• be on severance (a lump sum paid to an employee upon termination).

How do you apply for Second?

To find out if you qualify for Second Career and to apply for funding, visit an Employment Assessment centre for an assessment interview.