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If you have decided to pursue a career in Ontario skilled trades, the first thing you need to do is find the right trade school and program to get you the necessary certifications and licensing. With so many options available for skilled trades education, how can you decide which is best for you? Here are some things to think about:
Specialty
Deciding to go into the skilled trades isn't like deciding to be a teacher; there isn't one broad course you can take that will prepare your for your career. You need to dive a bit deeper and determine exactly which skilled trade you would like to specialize in. Plumbing? Gas fitting? Sheet metal working?
The key to success in the skilled trades industry is finding your niche and getting trained for in those specific skills. Make sure the Ontario trade school or skilled trades course you choose gets you those techniques. As well, skilled trades jobs require licensing, be sure that the program you enroll in gives you the certifications required by law to practice in the industry.
Course length
The sooner you can work, the better, right? So, why go to school for years when you can get certified quickly? Consider a trade school that cuts out the courses that are often required in college programs, like English and math. That way, you get more hands-on learning with a focus only on what you need to know for your license. Gas Fitting, for example, can be completed in just 17 weeks!
Class size
Large classes means less one-on-one time with your instructor - not great. When you are working in state-of-the-art labs, workshops and classrooms, class size matters. If you have questions, they need to be answered and if there are too many people around, your instructor may not have time to address everyone's needs. The fewer students, the better — try to find a class with around 20 students of less so you can get the attention, assistance and one-on-one environment.
Location
This may be something that is more important to some than it is for others, but location can play a major role in your decision making. If you don't have access to a vehicle every day, you will want to make sure the trade school is located on a public transportation line. And if you will be driving, check out the location to make sure there is plenty of available parking — the last thing you want is to be late for class because you had to park around the corner!
The best way to get to know about Ontario trade schools is to visit. Book a tour, talk to instructors and, if you can, talk to students and graduates to get to know the program. Seeing it first-hand and hearing about it from the people who have experience in the program is a great way to find out if it is the class for you.
