At Build a Dream, we support professionals and job seekers who are ready to step into a new career path or advance within their current industry. Whether you are exploring high-demand sectors, seeking to upskill, or looking to strengthen your career-readiness skills, our programs are designed to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Through exposure to growth industries, targeted skills development, personalized career coaching, and mentorship, we provide the guidance, tools, and networks needed to navigate transitions successfully. Build a Dream is here to help you define your goals, build your plan, and take your next step with purpose
Programs & Career Services:
The Programs & Career Services Department serves as the bridge between aspiration and opportunity, delivering innovative programs, career development services, and workforce initiatives that support individuals at every stage of their career journey.
Through strategic partnerships with industry, educators, community organizations, and employers, the department creates meaningful pathways into skilled trades, STEAM, entrepreneurship, emergency response, and other high-demand sectors. From career exploration and workforce readiness to professional development and industry connection, our programs are designed to build confidence, expand opportunities, and empower participants to achieve their personal and professional goals.
By combining experiential learning, mentorship, career coaching, and industry engagement, we are helping to develop the skilled, diverse, and future-ready workforce needed to strengthen communities and drive economic growth across Canada.
Internal Programs & Services
Career Services Support
Our Career Support Services are designed to support individuals at any stage of their professional journey, from those just beginning to those looking to advance. The services include access to career pathway information, upskilling opportunities, and meaningful networking connections. These wraparound supports are informed by lived experiences and are tailored to help individuals make empowered, informed career decisions.
To learn more about Career Support Services, or to contact a Build a Dream Career Coach please email:
careersupport@webuildadream.com
Career Support Funds
Through our Career Support Funds, we aim to reduce financial barriers for underrepresented groups pursuing careers in the Red Seal Trades. Funding is available for expenses such as:
- Required work related equipment such as steel toed boots, tools, safety clothing, safety glasses etc.
- Childcare costs such as paying for a babysitter for a sick child or for unexpected overtime and shift work
- Trade exam and certification fees
- Books and materials required for skills or coursework upgrading
- Unexpected work-related travel
If you are in need of funding for any of the above expenses or have questions about what can be covered under the fund, please contact our Career Support Specialist by sending an email to mckenna@webuildadream.com.
Pre-Apprenticeship Programs
Build a Dream’s Pre-Apprenticeship Training Programs provide participants with the skills, knowledge, and industry exposure needed to successfully transition into apprenticeship and skilled trades careers.
Through a combination of technical training, hands-on learning, workplace readiness development, and industry engagement, participants build a strong foundation for future success. The programs are designed to reduce barriers to entry, increase confidence, and create direct connections to apprenticeship opportunities, employers, and training pathways.
PAST PROGRAMS:
2024 – Darlington Introduction to Millwrighting. Partners: MRC Local 2309, Ontario Power Generation, Durham College, Black & McDonald, Canatom
2024: Windsor Introduction to Millwrighting. Partners: MRC Locals 1244 & 1007, UHC Hub of Opportunities, CMF Group
2025: Bruce Introduction to Millwrighting. Partners: MRC Local 1592, Durham College, Bruce Power, Nuclear Innovation Institute, Makwa Development, ES Fox, Aecon
2026: Toronto Construction Electrical Program. Partners: Canadian Union of Skilled Workers, Humber College, Ontario Power Generation, Valard Construction, Hydro One
Trade Skills Development Incubator
The Trades Skills Development Incubator connects individuals with career exploration in manufacturing, construction, and the skilled trades through hands-on exploration and direct employer engagement. Each session brings together industry partners, training providers, and aspiring professionals to explore pathways, build confidence, and take meaningful next steps toward their careers. Participants gain access to interactive demonstrations, networking with employers, and personalized guidance that supports their career journey. Designed in collaboration several industry partners, the series creates a clear bridge from awareness to action, leading to mentorships, and long-term workforce development.
Location: Zion Robotics, 1861 Ambassador Dr., Windsor ON
Funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy
In partnership with Zion Robotics and St. Clair College
Ready For Work Support
Dream & Conference
The Dream & Build Conference is Build a Dream’s premier professional development experience, bringing together women, emerging leaders, educators, employers, entrepreneurs, and industry champions for a weekend of learning, connection, and inspiration.
Designed to empower individuals at every stage of their career journey, the conference features dynamic keynote speakers, expert-led workshops, industry panels, and meaningful networking opportunities. Attendees gain practical leadership skills, career strategies, and insights into emerging industries while building lasting connections with mentors, peers, and employers.
This conference is open to women or gender-diverse individuals who currently work in or aspire to work in the skilled trade or STEAM. Whether you’re a student, apprentice, journeyperson, or career changer, this event is for you! Individuals at all career stages are welcome, including those who have transitioned into off site roles.
Workorce Skills Development Program
The Workforce Skills Development Program equips participants with the foundational skills, certifications, and confidence needed to enter and thrive in today’s workforce.
Combining flexible online learning, industry-recognized health and safety training, employability skill development, and wellness-focused programming, the program supports workforce readiness while promoting long-term career retention and success. Participants gain practical knowledge that strengthens their ability to secure employment and advance within high-demand industries.
Pre-Apprenticeship Program Details:
Winnipeg Introduction to Millwrighting Program
The Winnipeg Introduction to Millwrighting Program is an 8-week pre-apprenticeship program presented in partnership with Build a Dream, the Millwright Regional Council, and Millwright Local 1443. The 8 weeks are divided into 4 weeks of job ready training and a 4 week paid work placement.
Merritt Introduction to Millwrighting Program
More information coming soon.
