Looking for a career that builds your future and your community?

What if you could learn practical skills and build a career that supports your goals and values?

The unionized skilled trades offer hands-on work, strong career paths and the chance to make a real impact in your community. This industry honours the work it takes to build, maintain and care for our world – just like many generations have done before.

Hear from Indigenous tradespeople about how they’ve built strong, meaningful careers while staying connected to their values, communities and goals.

The unionized skilled trades offer:

  • Paid, hands-on training
  • Real-world experience from day one
  • A path to stability through union support, with access to benefits and pension security
  • A community that supports your success

Sound good? Your next steps are to explore the trades and start preparing for an apprenticeship.

Explore the trades below to find one that suits your skills and interests! When you’re ready for the next step, try the Build Your Skills Learning Hub – it’s your complete resource to support you through every step of your skilled trades journey.

Start your career journey here!

Explore the trades below to find the best fit for you.

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Boilermaker

Boilermaker

Boilermakers construct, install, and repair large containers and vessels that hold liquids and gases under pressure. This heavy industrial trade requires strength, precision, and technical skill.

Responsibilities

  • Lay out patterns and fit and weld parts together
  • Install, repair, and maintain boilers and heavy-metal products
Learn more
Bricklayer

Bricklayer

Bricklayers build and repair walls, partitions, fireplaces, and other structures using brick, block, and stone. Their craftsmanship ensures durability and structural integrity in construction.

Responsibilities

  • Read sketches & blueprints to calculate materials required
  • Measure and construct corners first, using a plumb line & mason's level to ensure level layers
Learn more
Cement Mason

Cement Mason

Cement masons work with concrete to build foundations, sidewalks, floors, and other structures. They shape and finish surfaces that form the basis of nearly every construction project.

Responsibilities

  • Place concrete, check formwork and steel reinforcement materials
  • Have knowledge of grouts, epoxy material & concrete curing materials
Learn more
Electrician

Electrician

Electricians install, maintain, and repair electrical power, lighting, communications, and control systems. They keep construction projects running safely and bring buildings to life with energy.

Responsibilities

  • Read and interpret drawings and electrical code specifications
  • Cut, thread, assemble and install conduits, other electrical conductor enclosures & fittings
Learn more
Glazier

Glazier

Glaziers cut, install, and replace glass in windows, skylights, and storefronts. They bring light and visibility to buildings while ensuring safety and energy efficiency.

Responsibilities

  • Read and interpret drawings & specifications
  • Measure, cut, fit, install, and/or secure glass panes, window parts & architectural metals
Learn more
Heat & Frost Insulator

Heat & Frost Insulator

Insulators install materials that control and maintain temperature in buildings, piping, and equipment. Their work improves energy efficiency, safety, and comfort in industrial and commercial settings.

Heavy/Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver

Heavy/Tractor-Trailer Truck Driver

Truck drivers transport materials, equipment, and supplies to and from construction sites. They keep projects moving by ensuring reliable, on-time delivery.

Iron Worker

Iron Worker

Iron workers assemble and install the structural framework of buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. Their work provides the backbone of modern construction.

Responsibilities

  • Read blueprints & specifications to lay out work
  • Safely operate tools & equipment
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Painter and Allied Trades

Painter and Allied Trades

Painters and allied tradespeople apply finishes to buildings and structures, protect surfaces from damage, and improve appearance. Their work spans painting, coating, drywall finishing, and surface preparation.

Plasterer & Stucco Mason

Plasterer & Stucco Mason

Plasterers and stucco masons apply plaster, stucco, and decorative finishes to walls, ceilings, and building exteriors. They combine durability with craftsmanship to protect and beautify surfaces.

Responsibilities

  • Installing interior and exterior coatings, including Venetian plaster and specialized textured finishes
  • Applying, leveling, and smoothing coats using trowels, brushes, or spray guns, and creating decorative, or textured finishes
Learn more
Plumber & Pipefitter

Plumber & Pipefitter

Plumbers and pipefitters assemble, install, and maintain piping systems for water, gas, and other fluids. Their work is essential to the function and safety of homes, businesses, and industrial sites.

Responsibilities

  • Read blueprints & specifications to determine plumbing layout
  • Locate, mark, join and secure pipe sections
Learn more
Sheet Metal Worker

Sheet Metal Worker

Sheet metal workers fabricate and install ductwork, roofing, siding, and other metal components. Their precision ensures proper ventilation, durability, and energy efficiency.

Responsibilities

  • Lay out, measure and mark dimensions according to drawings & templates
  • Supply, install, service and repair air handing equipment, furnaces & fans
Learn more
Sprinkler Fitter

Sprinkler Fitter

Sprinkler fitters install and maintain fire protection systems in commercial and residential buildings. Their work is critical to life safety and building code compliance.

Tile Layer

Tile Layer

Tile layers install ceramic, marble, and other types of tile on floors, walls, and surfaces. They combine precision and artistry to create durable, attractive finishes.

The skilled construction trades are for everyone!

Amazing mentors

As an apprentice in the unionized skilled trades, you’ll have access to mentors with a wealth of real-world experience and knowledge to share.

Earning potential

High paying salaries aren’t just for doctors, lawyers, and CEOs. Many trades in the U.S. offer jobs starting at $60,00 with the potential to earn six-figures!

Work-life balance

Many trades offer more flexibility than a typical 9-5 desk job, with a ton of medical and financial benefits that your family can take advantage of.

Rewarding careers

Help shape your community’s future by working on projects you can be proud of, that will continue to make an impact for generations!

Not sure which skilled trade is right for you?

There are tons of different trades within the unionized construction industry, and each offers a different kind of challenge and reward.

Explore the trades above to...

  • Learn the day-to-day responsibilities associated with each skilled trade
  • Explore the skills and attributes needed for each trade
  • Find a trade that fits your skills and interests

Wondering if you’ve got what it takes to succeed in the trades?

There are tons of resources to help you get started in an apprenticeship and a lifelong career in the unionized skilled trades.

The Build Your Skills Learning Hub can help you...

  • Brush up on your math, science, reading and more
  • Find easy-to-follow lessons, interactive activities and video tutorials
  • Feel confident as you prepare for an apprenticeship

Do you have resources for apprentices?

When you are in apprenticeship training, there are loads of resources to help you succeed.

The Build Your Skills Learning Hub gives you...

  • Trade-specific resources, interactive activities and video tutorials to help you tackle technical training concepts.
  • Professional development topics to help enhance your career in the skilled construction trades.
  • A Red Seal prep course to help you achieve your Red Seal or trade certification.
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