The Carpenters Local 397 Pre-Apprenticeship Program offers an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in a career in carpentry. This program provides Level 1 block training for the 403A General Carpenter designation, including health and safety training, scaffold safety training, and basic literacy skills. It includes multiple trade exposure with classroom training for 451A – Drywall, Acoustic, and Lathing Applicator. These components are designed to prepare participants for meaningful and gainful employment in the construction industry. The program covers carpentry fundamentals, including tool use, safety procedures, and basic techniques. Participants will also gain hands-on experience and practical skills through various projects. Upon completion of the program, participants will have the necessary knowledge and skills to work as general carpenter apprentices and all the required certifications mandated by the industry. This program lays a solid foundation for future apprentices.
Week 1: Health and Safety Training
Week 2-3: Scaffold Safety Training
Week 4-12: General Carpenter Level 1
Week 13-20: Work placement with Union Contractor*
*Only provided to successful participants
Carpenters Local 397 Pre-Apprenticeship is a funded program that is 100% free to attend. Participants will receive all necessary Personal Protective Equipment and a tool kit. Financial support is available through a $100/week stipend and dependent care up to $ 2,000. Eligible travel expenses may also be covered.
All participants must be a minimum of 16 years of age and be eligible to work in Ontario. Participants under 18 years of age must have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent as required under the Education Act. Newcomers, including temporary residents, asylum seekers and refugees, should confirm with the federal government if a study permit is needed to participate in Year 1 Ready Stream programs. Newcomer participants in receipt of an Authorization for Emergency Travel documents and valid work permit are eligible to participate in the Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program as long as the training duration (i.e., all training activities, including work placement) does not exceed six months in length. Participants with an active Employment Insurance claim may be eligible for a Section 25 referral under the Employment Insurance Act, 1996 (Canada).
Pre-employment training builds skills, confidence, and job-readiness for careers in the trades.
In-class sessions for provincially registered apprentices in pursuit of their Red Seal Certification.
UBC Health & Safety training ensures safe practices and compliance across all job sites.
Introducing students to the foundations of the trades, providing essential training, hands-on learning, and more.
UBCBuilt Training is the trusted training arm of the Carpenters’ Regional Council (CRC), serving over 70,000 members of the United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America (UBC) across five provinces and the territories.
