Applications are now open for a free pre-apprenticeship program designed to help unemployed and underemployed women and gender-diverse individuals in Sarnia-Lambton and nearby First Nations communities enter careers in the skilled trades.
The Women Ready to Work in Automotive program is offered by Women Building Futures in partnership with Employment Ontario, and includes training in both automotive service technician and heavy-duty equipment technician fields.
The program is open to residents of Lambton County, including Chippewas of Kettle & Stony Point, Aamjiwnaang First Nation, and Bkejwanong First Nation. It runs for eight weeks of classroom instruction followed by eight weeks of paid job placements at local businesses. Each participant will complete two separate four-week placements—one in each trade area.
“This initiative helps remove barriers and opens doors for women to pursue fulfilling careers in the trades,” said David Piccini, Ontario's Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “We’re proud to partner with Women Building Futures to support skills training and workforce participation across Ontario.”
Carol Moen, CEO of Women Building Futures (WBF), said the organization has a long track record of success helping women in Alberta move into skilled trades and transportation. “We are excited to bring our programs to help women in Ontario,” she said. “The response by the Ontario government and the Sarnia–Lambton business and educational community to our arrival here has been wonderful.”
The program, which is funded in part by the Governments of Ontario and Canada, is completely free for participants, but space is limited to eight students. Applications are due by May 25, 2025, and those selected must be ready and committed to completing the program.
Eligible applicants must:
- Identify as a woman or gender-diverse
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Reside in Lambton County (municipal or First Nation communities)
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Hold a high school diploma or equivalent (CAEC/GED)
- Have a valid Class G driver’s license and reliable transportation
- Be able to lift and carry 50 pounds
To apply, candidates must first create a profile through the WBF student portal and complete an application that includes a resume, high school diploma, driver’s license, and a short career investigation report. Admission advisors are available to assist throughout the process.
Applicants are evaluated based on readiness, willingness, and ability to succeed in the program and in the workplace. The process is designed to ensure that participants are fully prepared for the physical and mental demands of the trades.
Classes begin on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. Interested individuals can apply online at www.womenbuildingfutures.ca.
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