Build a Dream offers a dynamic suite of programs and services designed to inspire confidence, expand opportunities, and support personal and professional growth.
From career support services to mentorship, scholarships, and career exploration programs, our offerings empower students, job seekers, and individuals pursuing career advancement to develop in-demand skills, gain practical knowledge, build meaningful relationships, and grow professionally. Explore how we help individuals thrive at every stage of their journey.
Build a Dream – Programs & Services:
Our mentorship program connects women and gender-diverse adults with experienced industry professionals who provide guidance, encouragement, and practical career insight. Through meaningful one-to-one relationships, participants develop new skills, expand their networks, and gain the confidence needed to advance in their careers. This program supports individuals at every stage of their professional journey, empowering them to pursue growth, navigate challenges, and realize their full potential.
Upcoming Virtual Mentorship Sessions:
Breaking In: A Beginner’s Guide for Women Entering the Trades: Essential survival tools, mindsets, and community connections for women starting their skilled trades journey.
- Monday December 15th 6-7pm EST
- Tuesday December 16th 7-8pm EST
- Wednesday December 17th 6-7pm EST
Session Description:
This session is designed to support women who are exploring or just beginning a career in the skilled trades. Participants will learn about available entry points like pre-apprenticeship programs, apprenticeship pathways, and employer sponsored training. The session will include open discussions about the benefits and challenges of a trades career, what to expect on job sites, and the realities of working in male dominated environments. It will also introduce available support and community networks to help ensure long-term success.
Session Goals:
• Demystify the process of entering the trades and outline clear steps for getting started.
• Share local and national program options for training and certification.
• Offer honest conversations about the pros and cons of working in the trades.
• Build confidence and awareness of rights, support, and mentorship options.
• Provide follow-up guidance and ongoing support pathways beyond the session.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP & PARTICIPATE
Do you want to be a mentor?
Program Details:
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
Career Support Services:
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 click below:
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 [email protected].
External – Programs & Services:
Explore Life-Changing Training Programs with Women Building Futures:
Women Building Futures offers industry-recognized, free skills training designed to help women and gender-diverse individuals launch careers in skilled trades, transportation, and related fields. Programs combine hands-on training, safety certifications, workplace readiness skills, and employment support to prepare participants for meaningful, well-paid work.
