Which Skilled Trade is the Right One for Me?
Decision-making can be tough. Follow these five steps to narrow down the best career options for you.
Consider Your Passions and Skills
Everyone has unique passions, skills and strengths. Whether you like understanding how things work, have a love for patterns and shapes or enjoy solving puzzles, taking the time to evaluate yourself and identify what you’re really interested in can help you find a fulfilling career.
Unsure what your passions and skills are? Ask yourself these questions:
- What do I enjoy doing?
- What am I good at?
- What activities make me lose track of time?
Talk to Qualified People
Ask for guidance and guidance you shall receive. Talking to qualified people is the best way to get the inside scoop on the skilled trades. Try setting up a chat with:
- Guidance counsellors
- Union or trade association representatives
- Employees from local companies
- Friends and family who work in the skilled trades
Take a Quiz
This questionnaire will recommend some careers worth exploring based on your interests. It only takes 5 minutes to complete and there are no right or wrong answers.
See What’s in Demand Right Now
Is job security and compensation important to you? Careers in the skilled trades are in demand and well-paid. Jobs that are in high demand right now include carpenters, plumbers, electricians and cooks. Find out what other jobs are in high demand below!
Attend a Level Up! Career Fair
Our Level Up! Career Fairs are Ontario-wide, multi-day career events that bring together skilled trades professionals from businesses, post-secondary institutions, trade associations and many more. Attend a fair to connect with industry professionals who can help you get started in the skilled trades.
2024 Event Schedule is coming soon.
Thinking about your career? The skilled trades could be perfect for you.
Reasons to consider the skilled trades
The skilled trades provide rewarding, lucrative and purpose-driven career pathways that are in high demand.
What are the skilled trades?
Spanning the construction, industrial, motive power, and service sectors, there are 140+ skilled trades in Ontario.
Can I pursue a skilled trade?
Find out if you’re eligible to pursue a skilled trade in Ontario. Spoiler: there’s a skilled trade for everyone.
Frequently asked questions
From salaries to training, we’re providing answers to your biggest questions about the skilled trades.