Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Skills Ontario prioritizes creating equal opportunities for all youth through accessible and inclusive programs. We are committed to removing barriers and serving all Ontarians through opportunities to explore their career pathways. As an organization, we strive to build a diverse and inclusive skilled workforce.

Please contact Ashley at apszeniczny@skillsontario.com to inquire about accessibility and accommodations available.

 

Click below to learn more about: 

DE&I Events

 

Building a Skilled Workforce

 

Thank you to our Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Program Sponsors:

This Employment Ontario program is funded in part by the Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario.

 

                             

  

         

  

     

 

 

Event	Date	Time (EST)	Info & Registration
Skilled Trades & Tech Inclusivity Series This series highlights underrepresented groups in the skilled trades and tech.	Ongoing series	Ongoing series	Details
Skilled Trades & Tech Rise Series A virtual event series that educates adolescent newcomers on skilled trade and technology supports and pathways, including information on applying to apprenticeships. Parents and guardians are also encouraged to attend.		Every Wednesday in April 2024	Video #1: Building Your Resume & Cover Letter Video #2: Prepare for and Succeed in Interviews Video #3: Hear from Successful Tradespeople Video #4: Gain Skills to Pursue an Entrepreneurial Pathway
Skilled Trades & Tech Umoja Series These conferences are for Black youth and families to learn about post-secondary pathways leading to successful careers in skilled trades and technologies industries. During the conference, we will provide strategies to mitigate systemic racism, discrimination, and stigma. During the virtual conference attendees will be able to hear from potential employers, including businesses, corporations, services providers, and other relevant stakeholders.	February 25, 2025  February 26, 2025  February 27, 2025		Elementary    Video     Secondary Video       Parents/Guardians  Video
Hydraulic Mini Excavator Kit Follow along with this video series to make your own hydraulic mini excavator!	/	/	/
Skills Ontario Urban Tech Workshop The Urban Tech Workshop (UTECH) is an informative, interactive and hands on virtual experience where participants in grades 6-8 will learn about Technology careers and participate in virtual workshops.	June 10, 2025		Video
Tools for Success Workshops This is a series of in-person events hosted across the province to educate underrepresented people on use of tools, skilled trade & technology careers and in-demand careers specifically in the construction sector. Events will be hosted during July and August and will be workshop style lasting 2-2.5 hours. Each event/workshop will reach 10 participants aged 18-30. Skills Ontario DE&I initiatives aim to outreach to (but not limited to); youth at risk, youth living in poverty, Indigenous youth, Black youth, people of colour, newcomers, or youth with exceptionalities.	Ongoing series	July and August	Tools for Success Ottawa, July 29th Flyer
Trades & Tech Truck Event	TBD

 

NEW! Building a Skilled Workforce

The Building a Skilled Workforce program is designed to empower individuals, ages 18-29, by equipping them with the necessary skills and training to enter the skilled trades workforce. This initiative will support 120 participants in launching their careers in skilled trades. The training, which lasts between 1 to 4 weeks, is comprehensive and provided at no cost to participants, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their path to success.

Upon completing the training, participants will be placed in permanent skilled trades positions such as construction, manufacturing, general labor, and carpentry. The program also offers up to three months of wrap-around support, including toolkits, transportation, and childcare assistance, to help participants transition smoothly into their new roles. This initiative is made possible through partnerships with several trade unions and industry leaders, who are dedicated to fostering a diverse and skilled workforce.

Skills Ontario is current recruiting participants for the next Building a Skilled Workforce cohort, which is launching October 7th! 

Contact Zeinab Mohamed, Project Manager, at zmohamed@skillsontario.com to learn more or register for the program.