Start Your Career in the Trades!
Are you between the ages of 16 and 29 and interested in building a career in the trades?
BGC South East is RECRUITING!
Youth Employment & Trades Training Program: Trades Readiness Academy (TRAK)
Location: West End Community Centre (1300 Bath Road) – STEM & Robotics Centre
Program Timeline: September 8, 2026 – March 5, 2027 (24 weeks)
- 12 weeks of paid technical and professional skills training
- 12 weeks of paid industry work placement with a local employer
Training and placement schedules will be discussed during the interview process and may vary based on program and employer requirements.
Hours: 20 hours/week
Salary: Ontario Minimum Wage ($17.60/hour until September 30, 2026, increasing to $17.95/hour effective October 1, 2026)
About BGC South East
BGC South East has over 30 years of experience delivering programs that help children, youth, and young adults build skills, confidence, and connections within their community. Through our STEM & Robotics Centre, participants gain hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment while exploring pathways to education and careers in the trades.
Program Overview
The Trades Readiness Academy Kingston (TRAK) is a paid 24-week employment and training program designed to prepare young adults for careers in the trades.
Participants will complete 12 weeks of paid technical and professional skills training at BGC South East's STEM & Robotics Centre, followed by 12 weeks of a paid work placement with a local employer. Throughout the program, participants will develop practical technical skills, workplace knowledge, and professional habits while gaining valuable industry experience.
Program Highlights
- 12 weeks of paid technical and professional skills training
- 12 weeks of paid industry work placement
- Ontario Minimum Wage throughout the program
- Hands-on technical training using tools and equipment
- Professional skills training, including communication, teamwork, problem-solving, time management, and workplace expectations
- Resume development, interview preparation, and job search support
- Mentorship from experienced instructors and industry professionals
- Connections to local employers and apprenticeship opportunities
- Wrap-around and PPE supports
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be between 16 and 29 years of age
- Be a resident of Ontario
- Be legally authorized to work in Canada
- Be unemployed or underemployed (not in a trades career)
- Have an interest in pursuing a career in the trades
- Be available to participate in the full 24-week program, 20 hrs/week during program hours
Please note: Individuals must be residents of Ontario and legally authorized to work in Canada to participate in this program. International students and temporary foreign workers are not eligible to participate.
Program Expectations
Participants are expected to:
- Attend all scheduled training sessions and work placements
- Arrive on time and demonstrate professionalism
- Follow all workplace and safety procedures
- Participate actively in technical and professional skills training
- Respect fellow participants, instructors, employers, and program staff
- Demonstrate a commitment to learning and employment success
- Be prepared for hands-on work that may include standing for extended periods, lifting and carrying materials, working outdoors, and completing physically active tasks.
Limited Spaces Available
Only 10 participants will be accepted into this intake. Another intake will take place in January.
Application Process
Submit a resume and a cover letter indicating the position applying for to the attention of:
HR Administrator:
BGC offers all staff a free employee assistance program called Life Works. LifeWorks is a confidential Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and innovative well-being resource offering support and guidance for you and your colleagues.
Applications will be accepted until all spaces have been filled.
Please note that BGC South East will accommodate candidates as required under applicable human rights legislation. If you require a disability-related accommodation during this process, please inform us of your requirements, and we will do our best to accommodate.
We thank all those who apply, however, only successful candidates will be contacted for an interview.
Pay: $17.60 per hour
Work Location: In person
