Journey to Trades
Journey to Trades is an introductory construction trades program that prepares you with the basic hands-on skills, safety certifications and experience to start a career in the construction trades.
Overview
- Program Length
- 17 weeks
- Currently Offered In
-
- Calgary
- Edmonton
Description
Journey to Trades (formerly Journeywoman Start) is a hands-on training program that introduces students to a variety of different construction trades, such as:
- welding
- carpentry
- electrical
- plumbing
- millwright
- steamfitter/pipefitter
The program is designed to help students prepare for and succeed as an entry–level construction trades apprentice.
The specific trades covered in each cohort may vary.
Courses and Skills
- Basic safety certifications and first aid training
- Hands-on skills training in workshops for various trades
- Workplace culture and financial literacy
-
Practical science and math for the trades
- Interview and resume workshops to support employment
- Ongoing mentorship and support through alumni advisors
Admission Requirements
- Must be Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident
- Alberta Resident
- Driver licence – GDL accepted
- Ability to pass a drug/alcohol and fitness test (cannabis/THC included, even where legal)
Not sure if you meet all the requirements? Apply anyways! We’d love to learn more about you and help find the right fit.
Applicants will also need to finish a variety of steps as part of their application.
Program Cost
- This program is free. Tuition is fully funded by our partners
- Additional funding and awards may be available to support living expenses while in the program
Employment Opportunities
After finishing the program, graduates will be interviewed for entry-level positions with WBF employment partners.
Our employer partners are committed to safe, inclusive workplace cultures and to supporting our graduates’ career progression, which they show by signing on as a WBF Employer of Choice.
Upcoming Cohorts
-
September 14, 2026 - December 4, 2026
- Location
- Edmonton
- Application Deadline
- July 26, 2026
This is a 12-week introductory construction trades program that will prepare you to begin an entry-level career in the industry.
(Not sure whether the 12- or 17- week program is the right fit? Once you apply, your WBF advisor will help you decide)October 19, 2026 - February 26, 2027
- Location
- Edmonton
- Application Deadline
- August 30, 2026
This is a 17-week introductory construction trades program that will prepare you to begin an entry-level career in the industry.
(Not sure whether the 12- or 17- week program is the right fit? Once you apply, your WBF advisor will help you decide)Register for an Information Session
Click the button below to see upcoming information sessions:
Don't see a program open in your city?
Sign up for the Construction Trades email list for your province to be the first to be notified when the Journey to Trades program opens for applications in your region.
Graduate Success Stories
-
Meet Keeley
Keeley was determined to change her life for the better. Now she’s leading change in her industry and mentoring others.
-
Meet Iryne
Iryne was on employment insurance and looking for financial independence. A new career has helped provide all that and more.
-
Meet Natalie
Natalie was searching for an opportunity to enter the welding trades. Now she shares her passion as a mentor and teacher.