YMCA of the National Capital Region
A man wearing work goggles and holding an electric drill A man wearing work goggles and holding an electric drill

Building a Brighter, Greener Future in Skilled Trades

Interested in working in green construction and home renovation? The YMCA Ottawa Home Builders Training Program gives you the skills and certifications you need. Our hands-on training prepares you to meet Ontario's growing demand for skilled trades. There is no cost to participate.

  • 8 weeks of hands-on technical training in energy-efficient home renovation, including:
    • Exterior sheathing and framing for high-performance homes
    • Advanced insulation materials, air sealing, and moisture control
  • Training in green construction principles and the use of sustainable building materials
  • 4 to 6 weeks of paid work placement with local employers
  • Job readiness and academic preparation to support long-term career success
  • Free program materials, including textbooks, personal toolkits, and PPE
  • Industry certifications such as:
    • First Aid & CPR-C
    • WHMIS
    • Working at Heights
    • Worker Health & Safety Awareness in 4 Steps

Applicants must:

  • Be 18 years of age or older
  • Be legally entitled to work in Canada (Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents, Convention Refugees with open work permits, or Newcomers with an Authorization for Emergency Travel + valid work permit)
  • Be a resident of Ontario
  • Have Canadian Language Benchmark Level 7 or higher in English
  • Commit to full-time attendance for 8 weeks of training and intend to work in the field afterward

How to Apply

We’re now accepting applications for our May 2025 cohort!
 

If you're ready to pursue a future in green construction:

  1. Download and complete the YMCA Ottawa Home Builders Training Program Application Form (PDF).
  2. Submit your completed application to home.builders@ymcaottawa.ca.
     

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview and a virtual information session before the program begins.
 

Contact Us

Have questions or need help with your application? We’re here to help!

YMCA Ottawa Home Builders Training Program

Email: home.builders@ymcaottawa.ca
Phone: 613-608-6943
 

Canada, Employment Ontario, and Ontario logos

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