Hands-On Trades Training Workshop

Adults exploring a trade, hobbyists, young people preparing for apprenticeships, and local employers upskilling workers.

Course fees per student, group rates for employers, and extra income from open practice sessions or equipment hire time.

• Qualified trade or technical experience
• Teaching and safe supervision
• Managing equipment and materials

• Private career college rules and apprenticeship training standards vary by province, so check before you offer anything that sounds like a trade credential
• Don't present short courses as apprenticeship hours or certification unless you are approved to
• Workplace safety, protective equipment and commercial general liability insurance covering students on site
• Zoning and fire code for your unit, plus WCB or WSIB coverage once you hire instructors (rules vary by province)

Startup costs are estimates, typically around $15,000 to $70,000, depending on the unit you rent, the equipment and materials you need, and insurance. Costs vary with the trades you teach, such as welding, basic electrical or CNC.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $3,000 to $14,000, depending on course fees, class sizes and how many courses you run. Plan for at least about 20 hours a week, including teaching, supervision and managing equipment.

Private career college rules and apprenticeship training standards vary by province, so check before offering anything that sounds like a trade credential. Also check workplace safety, liability insurance covering students, zoning and fire code, and WCB or WSIB coverage if you hire instructors.