Residential Construction Training Program

Hands-on training in Residential Construction

If you like working with your hands and want a career where you see great results from your efforts, consider training with Trade Winds in residential construction, which offers comprehensive, hands-on training that is culturally informed.

After completing foundational learning for six weeks, you will move into 12 weeks of hands-on training. You’ll gain practical experience by building an eco-smart small home, covering trades such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, flooring, and more.

Guided by experienced journeyperson carpenter instructors, you will receive 330 hours of credited first-year carpentry experience. This rigorous and supportive program prepares you for a successful career in the residential construction industry, equipping you with the necessary skills and knowledge.

See the Residential Construction Program in action »

CONTENT:

Foundations bridges your life experiences with the expectations of the trades. Topics include orientation, overcoming employment barriers, computer technology training, team building, first aid certification, and financial literacy.

You’ll review trades math and science to prepare for the Apprenticeship and Industry Training Entrance Exam. This helps you have the knowledge required for your chosen trade and become eligible for apprenticeship in Alberta.

SUPPORT:

When you successfully complete this part of the program and pass the exam, you’ll receive personal protective equipment (PPE).

OUTCOME:

Participants are registered for the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training entrance exam and receive the preparation to succeed.

CONTENT:

As part of a team, you’ll build an eco-smart small home, gaining experience in various stages of residential construction under the guidance of experienced journeyperson instructors. This includes carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, flooring, insulating, glazing, painting, and drywall.

By building an eco-smart small home, you’ll discover the importance of proper construction practices and learn skills including:

Construction basics: hand tool knowledge and use, power tool knowledge and safety, working with blueprints and orientation of structures

Layout and assembly: beams, floors, walls and roof systems

Interior finishing: drywall, mudding, taping, and painting, baseboards and trim, flooring, cabinets, electrical plugs, switches and lights, shower, sink and toilet installation

Exterior finishing: windows, doors, siding and roofing

OUTCOME:

You’ll receive 330 hours of on-the-job carpentry experience that are credited to your first-year carpentry apprenticeship hours and are approved by the Alberta Apprenticeship Board. Upon graudation you will also receive essential tools to start your apprenticeship.

Job readiness training: Job readiness training is included throughout the program. This includes resume and cover letter writing, interview skills, and advice to successfully progress through your apprenticeship.

Employment referrals: When you graduate and are work-ready, you’re connected with employment opportunities through our network of industry partners.

We provide a rigorous
and supportive
training environment

Classes in the Residential Construction Program are demanding, with full attendance expected. If you miss three days in a row without a serious reason or accumulate multiple absences, you may be asked to leave the program. This policy ensures commitment and readiness for the demands of the trades. Our supportive environment gives you guidance to face barriers or life complications that may affect your success.

At Trade Winds, we’re dedicated to providing an outstanding educational experience that equips you with the skills, confidence and support needed to thrive in the residential construction trades.

Qualified Instruction

Our Residential Construction Program is taught by qualified journeyperson carpenters with Red Seal certification, years of on-the-job knowledge, as well as previous teaching experience.

Here’s what one instructor has to say:

“Our program focuses on engaging students through connection, not correction, allowing the heart and mind to follow. Creating a safe place to learn is key to our success and our students feel an immense sense of pride knowing they’re building a home that will house a community member.”

Gary Dureski

Residential Construction Manager

Dave McGuinness

Lead Carpentry Instructor

Kyle Slavic

Carpentry Instructor

Ian Sampietro

Foundations Instructor

Mike Nay

Foundations Instructor – Outreach

Employment Support

WHEN YOU GRADUATE FROM TRADE WINDS YOU WILL:

Be referred to employers that suit your skills and interests when you are job-ready
Have the safety certification you need to start work right away
Have your own personal protective equipment (PPE)
Own the basic tools needed for first year carpentry
Receive ongoing support and employment assistance to enhance your chances of success

Nail Your Future

Hands-on training in Residential Construction

Trade Winds Foundations and Academic Preparation

CONTENT:

SUPPORT:

OUTCOME:

Shop and Practical Theory

CONTENT:

OUTCOME:

Career Skills Development

We provide a rigorous
and supportive
training environment