Published: May 31, 2025 | Location: Barrie, Ontario
Introduction
Barrie, Ontario, is a vibrant city that offers a diverse range of career training and trade programs to meet the evolving needs of its workforce. From skilled trades to healthcare, technology, and business, various institutions and organizations provide comprehensive training opportunities for individuals seeking to enhance their skills and pursue rewarding careers. This article explores the key programs and resources available in Barrie to support career development and workforce readiness.
Georgian College
Georgian College is a leading institution in Barrie, offering a wide array of programs across multiple campuses. The college is renowned for its commitment to hands-on learning and industry partnerships.
Skilled Trades Programs
Georgian College’s Barrie Campus features a dedicated Centre for Skilled Trades, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities such as a woodworking shop, hairstyling studio, precision skills shop, and robotics lab. Programs offered include:
- Hairstyling
- Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technician (Co-op)
- Mechanical Technician – Precision Skills (Co-op)
These programs provide students with practical experience, preparing them for successful careers in high-demand industries. [Source]
Apprenticeship Programs
Georgian College serves as a Training Delivery Agent, offering in-school training for registered apprentices in various trades. Apprenticeships combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing students to earn while they learn. Programs cover trades such as electrical, welding, plumbing, and more. [Source]
Pre-Apprenticeship Programs
For those looking to gain entry into the skilled trades, Georgian College offers pre-apprenticeship programs that provide foundational skills and knowledge. These programs are designed to prepare individuals for apprenticeship opportunities and include hands-on training and work placements. [Source]
Oxford College
Oxford College’s Barrie Campus offers career training programs in healthcare, social services, technology, and business. The campus provides a supportive learning environment with small class sizes and flexible scheduling. Facilities include an aesthetics clinic, massage clinic, and dental clinic, allowing students to gain practical experience in their chosen fields. [Source]
CTS Canadian Career College
CTS Canadian Career College offers a variety of programs in health sciences, law and justice, technology, business, and trades. Programs available at the Barrie Campus include:
- Personal Support Worker
- Pharmacy Technician
- Paralegal
- Network Engineering Technologist
- Fire Safety Technician
- Brewing Technician
CTS provides students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in their chosen careers, with a focus on practical training and industry relevance. [Source]
Community Builders
Community Builders offers the Trades & Diversity Training Program (TDTP), a 3-month paid training program providing real on-the-job construction training. The program targets individuals from marginalized groups underrepresented in the trades, such as women, Black, Indigenous, people of color, and newcomers to Canada. Participants receive support in developing employment plans and overcoming barriers to employment. [Source]
Career Centre
The Career Centre, operated by the Simcoe County District School Board, offers employment services to job seekers and employers in Barrie. Services include:
- One-on-one consultations with Job Coaches
- Career planning and job search resources
- Information sessions and workshops
- Employment and training supports
- Administration of the Canada-Ontario Job Grant
The Career Centre is committed to helping individuals find sustainable employment and provides tailored services to meet diverse client needs. [Source]
Barrie Construction Association (BCA)
The BCA supports approximately 400 industrial, commercial, and institutional builders in the Simcoe County region. The association offers resources for students, apprentices, and employers, including:
- Youth in Construction programs
- Mentorship opportunities
- Information packages on construction careers
- Interactive educational resources
The BCA collaborates with local school boards to educate the community about careers in the construction industry. [Source]
Skilled Trades College of Canada
The Skilled Trades College of Canada offers pre-apprenticeship programs designed to provide students with hands-on training in various trades. Programs include:
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- HVAC
- Intro to Home Renovation
- Network Cable Technician
These 12-week courses emphasize practical experience, with 80% of the training conducted in lab settings. The college aims to prepare students for successful careers in the skilled trades. [Source]
Apprenticeship Office – Barrie Regional Office
The Apprenticeship Office in Barrie provides formal training for individuals pursuing careers in the skilled trades. The program combines on-the-job training with in-classroom instruction and offers registration services for apprenticeships. [Source]
Conclusion
Barrie offers a comprehensive array of career training and trade programs to support individuals in achieving their professional goals. Whether you’re interested in skilled trades, healthcare, technology, or business, the city’s educational institutions and organizations provide the resources and support necessary for success. By taking advantage of these opportunities, residents can enhance their skills, secure meaningful employment, and contribute to the growth and prosperity of the community.
