Through quality pre-trades training, culturally relevant support, and employment referrals, Trade Winds is dedicated to fostering a skilled workforce ready to contribute to the industry and their communities.
In 2020, Trade Winds launched its flagship Residential Construction Program (RCP) that prepares graduates for exciting careers in Carpentry through the construction of eco-smart small homes that are gifted to First Nations and Métis Settlements in Alberta.
With the guidance of Red Seal and Journeyperson Carpenters, students who enroll in the RCP gain exposure to all facets of the construction trades from hand tool knowledge, blueprint identification, flooring, roofing, beam installation, and interior and exterior finishing. Students feel a sense of pride and gratitude knowing the homes they are building will house an Indigenous community member, helping to solve the ongoing housing crisis many Indigenous communities face.
The Residential Construction Program is not your average pre-trades training program, with an agreement from the Alberta Apprenticeship Board, job-ready graduates of the RCP receive a credit of 330 hours towards their first-year Carpentry apprenticeship certification, relevant tools, safety tickets, and personal protective equipment to kick start their careers in the trades.
The studio home on display was built by 11 students who graduated from the Residential Construction Program in June. Trade Winds students collaborated with nationally recognized Cree Artist, Lance Cardinal to design a small home inspired and in memory of Mary Collins, a cherished staff member who was Métis and whose legacy continues to inspire.
Trade Winds is very proud of its programming, and they hope you’ll take time to tour the home and learn more about how our organization is creating economic opportunities for Indigenous Albertans.