Humber plays a significant role in building the next generation of the skilled trades workforce. The College has a comprehensive approach to addressing skilled trades shortages in Ontario, including industry partnerships, philanthropic support and the expansion of our Centre for Skills Trades and Technology, which will enable increased training and apprenticeship opportunities.

In today’s guest blog, Tyler Charlebois, Director, Centres of Innovation Network and Partnership Development, shares more information about several skilled trades-related initiatives Humber has recently announced.


Signature of Gina Antonacci (Gina)

Supporting the Future Generation of Skilled Trades Professionals

We know that the skilled trades are critical to the success of our economy. We also know that there is a significant skills gap and an aging workforce within the skilled trades. We must continue to have conversations with young people about the many advantages of pursuing careers in the 144 skilled trades and increase support for those who decide to join the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

The conversations are starting. Priority 1 of Humber’s Academic Plan, Programs and Pathways for Lifelong Learning, includes the development of an apprenticeship strategy that has the potential to be a powerful force for driving positive change in the labour market. Our plan will provide greater access to skilled trades training and apprenticeship education, increase the flexibility of delivery and support skilled trades professionals through their learning journey with targeted retraining and certifications.

Earlier this month, the Schulich Foundation, known for its philanthropic support of health care and universities, announced a historic scholarship program for the skilled trades. Schulich Builders will combat the shortage of skilled trades in Ontario and amplify their importance and value to our community by awarding 100 annual scholarships to the most promising candidates across ten Ontario colleges, including Humber.

In addition, Humber is pleased to announce a new collaboration with Stanley Black & Decker. This partnership will enable us to offer exceptional education and training opportunities to our students and provide access to the latest tools and technology from one of the world’s leading power tool brands—DEWALT.

Through this partnership our classrooms and labs will be equipped with top-of-the line power tools supplied by DEWALT, a brand of Stanley Black & Decker.

And, the partnership goes beyond the tools to:

  • Establish the DEWALT Pathways to the Trades Scholarships with two annual scholarships of $2,500.
  • Provide $6,000 annually for emergency bursaries for pre-apprenticeship and Pathways to the Trades students.
  • Support Humber’s pursuit of “owning the Skills podium” with support for competition tools, as well as coaching support.

Humber’s goal is to raise the profile of the skilled trades professions and to prepare our students for success in their chosen fields. Our partnership with DEWALT will give them access to some of the best tools available today, allowing them to become proficient in their craft while developing connections within the industry. With the support of our talented faculty and our generous industry partners, our students will graduate with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.

We are grateful to both the Schulich Foundation and DEWALT for their generous contributions. These partnerships demonstrate a commitment to providing students in the skilled trades with an exceptional educational experience and an opportunity to build meaningful relationships with industry leaders.

Tyler Charlebois, Director, Centres of Innovation Network and Partnership Development