Toolbox to Trades

Build your future in Carpentry

Get the skills. Earn the certifications. Start a career you can count on. All at no cost to you. 12-weeks of full-time, hands-on training designed to help you confidently join the workforce.

We Believe in People

We are dedicated to empowering the next generation of skilled trades people. As the training arm of CMAW, we believe in more than just safety and certification.

We are here to support workers as they grow, learn, and build fulfilling, long term careers.

We’ve got your back

Canada needs more skilled carpenters

Apply Now

With construction booming and a shortage of skilled workers, there’s never been a better time to start a career in carpentry.

That’s why we’re bringing you Toolbox to Trades, a training program that helps you step into steady, rewarding work where you will build projects that shape our communities and your future.

We’re Here to Remove Barriers, Not Add Them

What you will learn:

  • Essential Trades Skills: Hand & Power Tools, Measuring & Basic Math
  • Carpentry Techniques: Footings, Walls, Beams & Columns, Framing,
    Exterior Finishes and More!
  • Scaffold Introduction Training
  • Workplace Safety & Best Practices
  • 2-Week Practicum: A Working Interview with Industry Employers

Certifications you’ll earn:

  • Counterbalance Forklift
  • Rough Terrain Forklift
  • Rigging and Hoisting
  • Mobile Elevated Work Platform
  • Fall Protection
  • Confined Space
  • Occupational First Aid
  • WHMIS

Supports to set you up for success

We know life doesn’t pause when you’re training. We make it easier by providing:

  • Meal compensation while you’re in class
  • Financial support for transportation and childcare
  • Guidance from instructors dedicated to your success
  • A comprehensive toolkit along with all personal protective equipment required- All yours to keep when you graduate!

We are serving your community

  • Prince George, BC: March – June, 2025
  • Campbell River, BC: July – September, 2025
  • Castlegar, BC: September – December, 2025
  • Lethbridge, AB: January – April, 2026
  • Vernon, BC: April – July, 2026
  • Terrace, BC: July – September, 2026
  • Campbell River, BC: October – December, 2026
  • Prince George, BC: January – March, 2027

Locations

8

Students

120

Certifications

900+

Toolbox to
Trades is for you!

This program is open to people from all backgrounds. Whether you’re new to the trades or looking for a fresh start, you’ll find support here.

Testimonials

Hear from our students

“I’ve had a great experience in this program. The instructors are amazing – each bringing their own strengths while complimenting each other’s teaching styles. Their patience and support create a positive learning environment that makes it easy to stay engaged and absorb the material. It’s clear that they are dedicated to helping students succeed, and I truly appreciate the encouragement and guidance they provide. This has been a fantastic learning experience so far.”

– Toolbox to Trades Student

“Toolbox to Trades is a very encouraging course. It pushes you to be the best you can. I’m so happy to receive the extra help with this course. Thank you.”

– Toolbox to Trades Student

“I am loving the program so far and I am very much looking forward to finishing this course. The instructors are amazing, and I can’t say enough nice things about them.”

– Toolbox to Trades Student

‘Thank you, CMAW, for your time in helping me as a single mother to build my confidence. I’m overall so thankful and grateful to the staff and instructors.”

– Toolbox to Trades Student

Ready to get started?

Reach out today and we’ll guide you through the steps. To get a head start on your application, click the apply now button below.

Apply Now

Contact

Carly Chadwick

Director of Recruitment and Outreach

T:     236.521.3822 ext. 303
C:    236.886.8498
E:    cchadwick@cmaw.ca