Hands-On trades workshop school

Career changers, hobbyists and homeowners, young people exploring trades, and small employers sending new hires for basic skills.

Course fees per student, usually with a materials charge. Extra income can come from private group sessions for employers and from renting bench space.

• Strong, current skills in one trade
• Teaching and explaining clearly
• Shop safety and organizing
• Marketing to local students

• Many provinces regulate private vocational or career training. Check with your provincial regulator before advertising courses or taking fees
• Don't imply your course counts toward apprenticeship hours or a trade certificate unless it is officially approved
• Commercial general liability insurance that covers teaching and student injuries
• Check zoning, fire code and the equipment and ventilation rules for your unit with your municipality
• Check whether you need a trade certificate or journeyperson ticket to teach your trade in your province
• Equipment costs and low enrolment in slow seasons

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $25,000 to $120,000, depending on your shop space, tools and equipment, ventilation and safety needs, and the trade you teach.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $4,000 to $20,000, depending on course fees, class sizes and how many courses you run. These are revenue estimates before costs, and enrolment can dip in slow seasons.

Check with your provincial regulator about private vocational training before advertising or taking fees, and whether you need a trade certificate to teach. Don't imply apprenticeship credit unless approved. Also check insurance, zoning and fire code.