School of Skilled Trades &amp; Transportation

Program Types

Automotive & Heavy Equipment

Sort Name

Heavy Equipment Techniques

Summary

You will learn to service, troubleshoot, and repair heavy vehicles and industrial equipment used in construction, mining, and agriculture. Through hands-on training in our shops, you will build the mechanical and electrical skills employers need right away.

Career outcomes

Heavy Equipment Technician
Mobile Equipment Mechanic
Service Manager
Parts Specialist
Fleet Maintenance Coordinator
Workshop Foreman

Admission requirements

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes).
Grade 11 Chemistry and Grade 12 Physics are recommended but not mandatory.
You must be at least 16 years old to enter the shops.

Tuition

Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,620 per year, plus $1,125 in annual ancillary fees.

Courses

What you will learn

This program gives you the practical skills to maintain, troubleshoot, and repair heavy vehicles and industrial equipment. You will spend most of your time in the Tamarack Building shops, where you will work on real machinery used in construction, mining, forestry, and agriculture. You will learn to diagnose engine problems, service hydraulic systems, and replace worn parts. You will also develop the technical writing and communication skills needed to document repairs and explain your work to supervisors and clients.

How the program runs

The program runs full-time over two terms in a single academic year. Classes and shop sessions take place at our Benchlands Campus, which houses the Tamarack Building and its heavy equipment bays. You will attend lectures, complete practical lab assignments, and work on team projects. The schedule is Monday to Friday during regular business hours. Because the program is intensive and hands-on, you should plan to attend every session. You will graduate with an Ontario College Certificate and a portfolio of completed repairs.

Admission

To join the program, you need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or you must qualify as a mature student (19 or older by the start of classes). While Grade 11 Chemistry and Grade 12 Physics are recommended to help you succeed, they are not mandatory. You must be at least 16 years old to enter the shops and work with machinery. All students must pass a criminal reference check and a drug screening before beginning shop sessions. If you need help meeting the academic prerequisites, you can take upgrading courses through our Academic Upgrading centre before you apply.

Tuition and fees

Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,620 per year. You will also pay $1,125 in annual ancillary fees for student services, campus access, and materials. These fees cover your shop safety orientation, lab access, and use of testing equipment. If you need help covering the cost, visit the Student Financial Aid office or contact us at 519-555-0173. You can also explore entrance scholarships and bursaries that do not require a separate application.

After you graduate

Graduates are ready to work immediately in repair shops, depots, and field service roles. Employers in construction, mining, material handling, landscaping, and agriculture hire our graduates as heavy equipment technicians, mobile equipment mechanics, and workshop foremen. Some graduates move into parts sales, fleet maintenance coordination, or service management. The program also prepares you for apprenticeship registration in the Skilled Trades, allowing you to earn pay while you work toward your journeyperson certification.

How to apply

Domestic applicants apply through the provincial college application service. You can start your application anytime, but we encourage you to apply early for the September intake. International applicants should use the polytechnic's own application form. Once you receive an offer, you will upload your documents and confirm your enrolment in myWrenford. For questions about the application process, contact the Admissions office at 519-555-0171 or visit the How to apply page.

Automotive Service Technician (Apprenticeship)

Academic Department

Editorial Section

Program Levels

Program Location

Program Types

Automotive & Heavy Equipment

Sort Name

Automotive Service Technician (Apprenticeship)

Summary

You will learn to diagnose, maintain and repair cars, light trucks and hybrid vehicles in our fully equipped shops. The program blends theory with practical skills so you can work confidently in dealerships, repair centres or independent service shops.

Career outcomes

Automotive Service Technician
Automotive Service Writer
Fleet Maintenance Technician
Mobile Service Technician
Shop Foreman
Independent Service Shop Owner

Admission requirements

Be registered as an apprentice with the provincial apprenticeship authority.
Have a valid driver's licence and clean driving record.
Meet the age requirement of 16 years to work in the shops.
Provide proof of high school graduation or equivalent, or mature student status.

Tuition

Tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $1,190 per training level, payable at the start of each period.

Courses

What you will learn

Automotive technology moves fast, and this program keeps you ahead of the curve. You will study how modern cars, light trucks and hybrid vehicles work from the ground up. In our fully equipped shops, you will practice using digital diagnostic tools to read engine data, test electrical circuits and troubleshoot complex faults. You will learn to service braking systems, replace worn components and carry out scheduled maintenance. Every lesson ties directly to what you will face on the job, so you graduate with real confidence behind the wrench.

How the program runs

The Automotive Service Technician apprenticeship training runs on a full-time schedule at our Benchlands Campus. Classes begin each September, January and May. Each training level lasts between eight and ten weeks, giving you focused time to master new skills before moving on. Most of your instruction happens inside the Tamarack Building, where instructors lead hands-on labs and workshops. You will work on customer vehicles and training platforms under direct supervision. The schedule is designed to match the provincial apprenticeship framework, so your time in class counts toward your on-the-job hours.

Admission

You must be registered with the provincial apprenticeship authority before you start your first class. The program welcomes domestic applicants who hold a high school diploma or equivalent, or who qualify as mature students. International applicants can submit their documents directly through the polytechnic. You will need a valid driver's licence and a clean driving record to safely operate vehicles during lab sessions. All applicants must meet the basic eligibility rules set by the program and the provincial regulator. There is no application fee to submit your paperwork, and seats fill on a first-come, first-eligible basis.

Tuition and fees

Tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $1,190 per training level. You pay this amount at the start of each eight-to-ten-week period. Ancillary fees of $1,125 per year cover campus services and are billed separately. The polytechnic does not charge an application fee. Financial aid and bursaries may be available to help cover living costs while you study. Visit the Tuition & Fees page for details on payment plans and funding options.

After you graduate

Upon successful completion, you will receive your Ontario College Certificate in Apprenticeship Training. This credential confirms you have met the in-school training requirements for the trade. You will be eligible to write the provincial trade exam and work toward your Red Seal endorsement, which allows you to practice in any province. Graduates find work in dealerships, independent repair shops, fleet operations and municipal maintenance departments. Many go on to open their own service centres or take on shop foreman roles.

How to apply

Ready to start? Head to the Apply page to submit your documents. You will create a myWrenford account to track your application status and receive your offer letter. If you need help with the process, contact the Admissions office or call 519-555-0171. For questions about apprenticeship registration, reach out to the provincial authority directly. We look forward to helping you build a hands-on career in automotive service.

Motive Power Technician

Academic Department

Editorial Section

Program Levels

Diploma

Program Location

Program Types

Sort Name

Motive Power Technician

Summary

This program gives you the hands-on skills to diagnose, repair, and maintain heavy-duty vehicles and mobile equipment used in construction, forestry, and agriculture. You will work in the Tamarack Building's heavy equipment bays, learning from industry instructors while using the same tools and diagnostic software found on job sites.

Career outcomes

Heavy equipment mechanic
Diesel mechanic
Locomotive vehicle technician
Fleet maintenance supervisor
Service advisor
Mobile equipment technician

Admission requirements

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent
Mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes)
Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%

Tuition

Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,940 per year. Ancillary fees are $1,125 per year and are charged separately.

Courses

What you will learn

As a Motive Power Technician student, you will spend most of your time in the Tamarack Building's heavy equipment bays. You will learn how to keep large vehicles and mobile machinery running safely and efficiently. Your training covers diesel engines, hydraulic systems, power trains, and electrical systems. You will use factory-level diagnostic tools to find faults and write clear service reports. The program also teaches you how to read technical manuals, manage shop safety, and communicate effectively with customers and team members.

How the program runs

The program runs full-time over four terms at the Benchlands Campus. Classes start in September and run through the spring and summer. You will attend lectures in the afternoon and spend mornings in the shop working on real engines and transmissions. The program does not include a co-op work term, but you will complete a final project that mirrors a real-world service job. You will have access to the Falls Library & Learning Commons for research and tutoring, and you can visit the Co-op & Career Services office in the Student Union Building to prepare your resume and practice interview skills.

Admission

To join this program, you must hold an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or an equivalent credential. If you are 19 or older by the start of classes, you can apply as a mature student. You must have completed Grade 12 English at the college level (C or U) with a minimum grade of 60%. You do not need a specific math grade for this program, but a strong background in science and technical subjects will help you succeed in the shop. All applicants must pass a criminal reference check and a drug screening before beginning shop sessions.

Tuition and fees

Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,940 per year. This covers all classes, lab materials, and shop usage. You will also pay ancillary fees of $1,125 per year, which support student services, the campus library, and athletics. If you need a payment plan, you can set one up through Student Financial Aid before each term starts. International students pay $17,600 per year. You can check your fee balance and pay online through myWrenford.

After you graduate

Graduates of the Motive Power Technician program are ready to work in busy repair shops, dealership service centres, and heavy equipment yards. Employers hire our graduates as heavy equipment mechanics, diesel technicians, mobile equipment technicians, and fleet maintenance supervisors. You will also qualify to enter the provincial apprenticeship program as a Motive Power Technician. Many of our alumni go on to become shop foremen, service advisors, or equipment fleet managers. The program's focus on modern diagnostic equipment and safety standards means you can start working on day one.

How to apply

Domestic applicants apply through the provincial college application service. You will need to upload your transcripts and a copy of your identification. There is no application fee. International applicants use Wrenford Polytechnic's own application form. Once you receive an offer, you will accept it through myWrenford and pay your tuition deposit to secure your seat. If you need help with the application, you can contact the Admissions office or visit the Admissions — How to apply page for step-by-step instructions.

Industrial Mechanic Millwright (Apprenticeship)

Academic Department

Editorial Section

Program Levels

Program Location

Program Types

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Industrial Mechanic Millwright (Apprenticeship)

Summary

You will learn to install, maintain, repair, and troubleshoot stationary industrial machinery and mechanical systems. The program blends classroom theory with hands-on shop training in the Tamarack Building, preparing you for a career that keeps factories, plants, and processing facilities running.

Career outcomes

Industrial Machinery Mechanic
Maintenance Technician
Millwright
Equipment Fitter
Field Service Technician
Plant Maintenance Coordinator

Admission requirements

Active registration with the provincial apprenticeship body as an Industrial Mechanic (Millwright) apprentice.
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes).
Completion of a mandatory shop safety orientation before beginning lab work.
You must be 16 years of age or older to enter the workshops; apprentices under 18 must submit a signed consent form.

Tuition

Domestic tuition is $1,190 per level for the 2026–27 academic year.

Courses

What you will learn

As an Industrial Mechanic (Millwright) apprentice, you will spend your training installing, maintaining, repairing, and troubleshooting stationary industrial machinery and mechanical equipment. The curriculum covers industrial motor controls, hydraulic system maintenance, machinery fundamentals, precision measurement, and essential welding processes. You will read technical drawings, use precision measuring tools, and practice structural steel welding to prepare for real-world industrial environments. All practical training takes place in the Tamarack Building at the Benchlands Campus, where you will work with the same tools and equipment used across the province's manufacturing and processing sectors.

How the program runs

This is a full-time in-school training program delivered over eight to ten weeks per level. Classes run Monday through Friday during the day. You will attend one level per year of your apprenticeship, completing the required classroom and shop hours alongside your on-the-job training at your employer. There is no co-op work term, as the program is structured entirely around the provincial apprenticeship framework. Intakes are available in September and January.

Admission

To enrol, you must be an active apprentice registered with the provincial apprenticeship body. You also need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes). Before your first day, you must complete the mandatory shop safety orientation. All students must be at least 16 years old to enter the shops; those under 18 must provide a signed consent form. If you need academic or exam accommodations, contact Accessibility Services before the term begins.

Tuition and fees

Domestic tuition is $1,190 per level for the 2026–27 academic year. Ancillary fees apply each term. Payment plans are available for domestic students, and you can contact Student Financial Aid or the Registrar for details. Parking permits are available for student and apprentice vehicles at Lot B on the Benchlands Campus.

After you graduate

Upon successful completion of all levels of in-school training and your required on-the-job hours, you will be eligible to write the provincial interprovincial exam. Passing the exam leads to your Certificate of Qualification and the Red Seal endorsement, which allows you to work as a qualified Industrial Mechanic (Millwright) anywhere in Canada.

How to apply

Apprentices register directly for classroom instruction through the provincial college application service. Visit How to apply for step-by-step registration guidance. For programme-specific questions, contact the Electrical & Mechanical Trades department at 519-555-0170, ext. 4305.

Welding & Fabrication Technician

Academic Department

Editorial Section

Program Levels

Diploma

Program Location

Program Types

Sort Name

Welding & Fabrication Technician

Summary

This program gives you the practical skills and technical knowledge needed to work in industrial welding and metal fabrication. You will spend time in the welding bays of the Tamarack Building, learning how to read blueprints, select materials, and operate equipment for structural steel, pipefitting, and custom fabrication. You will also study the science behind metals and learn how to inspect welds for safety and quality.

Career outcomes

Welding inspector
Structural steel welder
Pipefitter
Fabrication technician
Quality control inspector

Admission requirements

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes).
Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%.
International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent coursework.

Tuition

Domestic tuition for the Ontario College Diploma is $3,940 per year for the 2026–27 academic year. Ancillary fees are $1,125 per year.

Courses

What you will learn

Welding and fabrication are core trades in manufacturing, construction, and infrastructure projects. In this program, you will move from basic techniques to advanced applications across different metals and joining processes. You will learn to interpret engineering drawings, calculate material requirements, and follow strict safety protocols. The curriculum covers shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, and welding metallurgy. You will also gain experience in structural steel welding, pipefitting, and non-destructive testing methods used to verify weld integrity.

How the program runs

The program is delivered full-time at the Benchlands Campus. Classes and shop sessions are held in the Tamarack Building, where the welding bays and fabrication workshops are located. You will attend courses in the Fall and Winter terms over two years, completing four terms in total. The schedule includes a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on lab work, and practical assessments. You will also complete courses in professional writing, visual communication, business ethics, and project management to prepare you for the workplace.

Admission

To apply, you need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or you must qualify as a mature student (19 or older by the start of classes). You must have completed Grade 12 English (C or U) with a minimum grade of 60%. If you are an international applicant, you must provide proof of English proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent coursework. You can apply through the provincial college application service for domestic full-time applicants, or directly through the polytechnic's international application form.

Tuition and fees

Domestic tuition for the Ontario College Diploma is $3,940 per year for the 2026–27 academic year. Ancillary fees, which cover student services, facilities, and materials, are $1,125 per year. International tuition is $17,600 per year. Parking permits are $210 per term. You must pay outstanding balances before the term start date to access course materials and shop access.

After you graduate

Graduates of this program are prepared to enter the workforce as welding and fabrication technicians. Employers in manufacturing, construction, pipeline, and heavy equipment sectors value the combination of hands-on shop skills and technical theory you will gain. The program also meets the in-school training requirements for apprenticeship levels, allowing you to continue toward your journeyperson designation if you choose. Many graduates go on to work as welding inspectors, quality control technicians, or fabrication supervisors.

How to apply

Applications for the September intake are open now. Domestic full-time applicants should apply through the provincial college application service. International applicants should use the polytechnic's own application form. You can upload your transcripts and supporting documents through the myWrenford portal once your application is started. For questions about admission requirements or the application process, contact the Admissions office.

Construction & Maintenance Electrician (Apprenticeship)

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Editorial Section

Program Levels

Program Location

Program Types

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Construction & Maintenance Electrician (Apprenticeship)

Summary

This apprenticeship program prepares you for a career installing, altering, repairing and maintaining electrical systems in commercial, industrial and residential environments. You will train in the Tamarack Building on the Benchlands Campus, using professional tools to build residential wiring, commercial systems and industrial automation controls. The program is structured in levels of eight to ten weeks, delivered full-time with morning-to-afternoon lab sessions. You will start your training in September, January or May, and you must be 16 or older to enter the shops.

Career outcomes

Construction & Maintenance Electrician
Lead Hand Electrician
Foreperson
Project Supervisor
Independent Electrical Contractor
Electrical Estimator

Admission requirements

Registration with the provincial apprenticeship authority
Assignment to a training level based on work experience
High school diploma or equivalent
Signed consent form if under 18 years old

Tuition

Tuition is $1,190 per level for domestic students; ancillary fees are $1,125 per year and billed separately.

Courses

What you will learn

As a Construction & Maintenance Electrician, you will install, alter, repair and maintain electrical systems in commercial, industrial and residential settings. You will work in the Tamarack Building on the Benchlands Campus, where you will use professional-grade tools and equipment. Our shops are designed to mirror real job sites so you can build confidence before you step onto a worksite. You will learn to read blueprints, calculate electrical loads, run conduit and wire control panels. Safety is the foundation of everything you do. You must be 16 or older to enter the shops, and you will follow strict safety protocols at all times. You will also practice pipe welding techniques to ensure your installations meet industry standards.

How the program runs

This program is delivered full-time on the Benchlands Campus. You will attend classroom sessions and hands-on shop labs Monday through Friday. The program is broken into levels, each lasting eight to ten weeks. You can start in September, January or May. Each level covers a specific set of skills, from basic residential wiring to advanced industrial automation. You will complete seven core courses that take you from service entrance installations to commercial electrical systems and pipe welding. There are no co-op work terms in this program because your training is built around your on-the-job apprenticeship hours.

Admission

To join this program, you must first be registered as an apprentice with the provincial apprenticeship authority. The authority will review your eligibility and assign you to a training level based on your work experience. You must also meet the program's academic prerequisites, which generally include a high school diploma or equivalent. If you are under 18, you will need a signed consent form to work in the shops. You do not need to pay an application fee to submit your application to Wrenford Polytechnic. If you need help with finances, visit the Student Financial Aid office or call 519-555-0173.

Tuition and fees

Tuition for each training level is $1,190 for domestic students. This fee covers your instruction, shop access and program materials. Ancillary fees are $1,125 per year and are billed separately. International students pay $17,600 per year for tuition and $1,125 in ancillary fees. You can pay your fees through the Student Financial Aid portal or request a payment plan. Parking on the Benchlands Campus is available in Lots A through D, and a student permit is $210 per term. If you live in residence, Larch House traditional rooms cost $7,950 per year and require the $4,600 meal plan.

After you graduate

When you finish all required levels, you will be ready to write your provincial trade exam. Passing the exam leads to your Red Seal endorsement, which allows you to work as a qualified electrician anywhere in Canada. Graduates often find roles as lead hands, forepersons or project supervisors in construction and maintenance companies. Many go on to start their own contracting businesses. You can also pursue further study through Continuing Education to expand your expertise in areas like building codes, energy management or project estimation.

How to apply

Apprenticeship students register directly with Wrenford Polytechnic for classroom instruction after their provincial apprenticeship authority assigns them to a training period. Domestic full-time applicants apply through the provincial college application service. International applicants apply using the polytechnic's own form. You can upload your documents in myWrenford once you receive your student account. For questions about registration, fees or program dates, contact the Registrar at 519-555-0172 or visit the Admissions office in Hollis Hall.

Electrical Techniques

Academic Department

Editorial Section

Program Levels

Certificate

Program Location

Program Types

Carpentry & Construction Trades

Sort Name

Electrical Techniques

Summary

Electrical Techniques is a one-year certificate program designed to give you the practical skills and safety knowledge needed to work in residential and light commercial electrical environments. You will spend time in the Tamarack Building shops learning to read blueprints, install wiring, and work with conduit and circuit protection devices. The program covers the fundamentals of electrical theory, motor control, and safety standards. You will graduate ready to support licensed electricians or apply for apprenticeship registration with the provincial regulatory body.

Career outcomes

Electrical helper
Residential wiring technician
Light commercial electrical installer
Maintenance electrician assistant
Electrical sales representative
Apprentice electrician

Admission requirements

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent
Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%
Grade 12 Math (C or U), minimum 60%
Proof of English proficiency for international applicants
Meet the shop access age requirement of 16 years old

Tuition

Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,620 per year, plus $1,125 in annual ancillary fees.

Courses

What you will learn

In this program, you will build a strong foundation in electrical systems used in homes and small commercial buildings. You will learn how to read technical drawings and blueprints, measure and cut materials, and install wiring and protective devices safely. Hands-on labs in the Tamarack Building shops let you practice bending conduit, setting up circuits, and testing systems with industry-standard tools. You will also study electrical theory, motor control basics, and the safety regulations that keep workers and buildings protected. Communication and design courses help you explain technical information clearly and present your work professionally.

How the program runs

Electrical Techniques is a full-time program delivered over two terms at the Benchlands Campus. Classes and labs run Monday through Friday during the day. You will spend roughly half your time in the classroom and half in the shops or labs. The schedule is designed to match industry shifts, so you will practice tasks under realistic conditions. The program starts in September and January each year. You will work alongside instructors who have years of field experience and bring current trade knowledge into the classroom. There is no co-op placement in this certificate program, but the hands-on shop hours count toward your practical training.

Admission

To enter Electrical Techniques, you need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, or you must meet mature student status. You must have completed Grade 12 English and Grade 12 Math, both at a minimum grade of 60%. If you are an international applicant, you will also need to provide proof of English proficiency. Because the program involves working with live equipment and heavy tools, you must be at least 16 years old to enter the shops. Under-18 students will need a signed consent form from a parent or guardian. All applicants apply through the provincial college application service for full-time intake, or register directly through Continuing Education if you prefer part-time study.

Tuition and fees

Domestic tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $3,620 per year. This covers both terms of instruction and shop access. You will also pay $1,125 in annual ancillary fees for student services, campus facilities, and technology access. These fees are separate from tuition and are billed each term. If you need financial help, contact Student Financial Aid to see what grants, loans, or payment plans you qualify for. The college does not charge an application fee to submit your application. Scholarships and bursaries are available for students who meet the eligibility criteria.

After you graduate

Graduates of Electrical Techniques are prepared to enter the workforce as electrical helpers or to begin an apprenticeship with the provincial regulatory body. You will have the practical skills to assist licensed electricians on residential and light commercial jobs, work in maintenance departments, or enter roles in electrical sales and service. The program also gives you the credits needed to transfer into related diploma or degree programs if you choose to continue your education. Many employers recognize the Wrenford Polytechnic credential and hire directly from the program.

How to apply

Ready to get started? You can begin your application online through the Apply page. Domestic full-time applicants should apply through the provincial college application service and submit documents before the equal consideration date of March 1, 2027. International applicants use the polytechnic's own application form. If you need help with the process, visit the Admissions page or call the admissions office at 519-555-0171. You can also book a campus tour to see the Tamarack Building shops and meet faculty before you decide.

Plumber (Apprenticeship)

Academic Department

Editorial Section

Program Levels

Program Location

Program Types

Carpentry & Construction Trades

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Plumber (Apprenticeship)

Summary

You will learn how to install, maintain, and repair plumbing systems for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. The program covers water supply, drainage, venting, and hydronic heating systems. You will read blueprints, work with pipes and fittings, and follow provincial plumbing codes.

Career outcomes

Plumber
Pipefitter
Steamfitter
Plumbing Inspector
Heating System Installer
Maintenance Plumber

Admission requirements

Registered as an apprentice with the provincial apprenticeship authority.
High school diploma or equivalent, with recommended Grade 11 or 12 Math, Physics, and Chemistry or Biology.
Pass a criminal reference check and drug screening before beginning shop sessions.

Tuition

Tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $1,190 per level, plus ancillary fees.

Courses

What you will learn

As a plumber, you plan, install, and service piping systems that carry water, waste, gases, and hot liquids. You will work in the Tamarack Building shops and classrooms to build hands-on skills alongside classroom theory. You will learn to read blueprints, locate fixture positions, and cut openings for pipe runs. You will practice soldering, brazing, and rigging procedures. You will also study plumbing codes, water pipe sizing, drainage and venting requirements, and hydronic heating systems. Safety is a core part of every session, and you will complete workplace hazard identification and material safety data sheet training.

How the program runs

This program is delivered full-time at our Benchlands Campus. Classes meet Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. You will attend in-school training for eight to ten weeks per level. You will complete four levels of technical training. Between levels, you will return to your employer to complete on-the-job hours. The program uses applied learning, so you will spend most of your time in the shops practising real-world tasks. You must pass a criminal reference check and a drug screening before you begin shop sessions. If you have a medical or physical condition that affects shop work, contact Accessibility Services to arrange an interview with our rehabilitation specialist before classes start.

Admission

You must be registered as an active apprentice with the provincial apprenticeship authority to enrol in this program. We recommend high school completion, including Grade 11 or 12 Math, Physics, and Chemistry or Biology. You can also take the Piping Foundation program to build a solid base of knowledge before starting. International applicants are not eligible for apprenticeship training. You must consult the Apprenticeship Training Schedule to find available intake dates. Registration opens through the provincial application service or directly with our Registrar's office. You will need to pay a commitment fee when you register.

Tuition and fees

Tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $1,190 per level, plus ancillary fees. You are responsible for your own tools, personal protective equipment, and coveralls. The Campus Store sells required coveralls and uniform authorisation vouchers. You can use our tuition estimator to calculate total costs for your program. Financial support is available through provincial employment insurance and personal support payments for apprentices. Contact Student Financial Aid for details on income support and payment plans.

After you graduate

Upon completing all four levels of in-school training, you will be eligible to write the interprovincial exam. Passing the exam earns you a Certificate of Qualification with a Red Seal endorsement, which allows you to work anywhere in Canada without additional training. You may also choose to specialise in areas like medical gas systems, water conditioners, or chilled water systems. Graduates find work with construction contractors, plumbing repair shops, industrial facilities, or they may start their own business. The program also prepares you for business competencies if you wish to earn a Blue Seal Achievement after completing approved study hours.

How to apply

Apply through the provincial college application service to request training dates. You can also visit our How to apply page for step-by-step instructions. If you need help with registration or funding, contact the Registrar's office at 519-555-0172 or visit the Student Services office in Hollis Hall. You can also book a campus tour to see the Tamarack Building shops and classrooms before you enrol.

General Carpenter (Apprenticeship)

Academic Department

Editorial Section

Program Levels

Program Location

Program Types

Carpentry & Construction Trades

Sort Name

General Carpenter (Apprenticeship)

Summary

This program gives you the practical skills and theoretical knowledge to work as a general carpenter in residential and commercial construction. You will spend most of your time in the Tamarack Building shops on the Benchlands Campus, where you will practice framing, roofing, and structural techniques under the guidance of experienced instructors. You will also learn essential plumbing basics and project management skills that are highly valued on construction sites. The curriculum is designed to meet provincial apprenticeship standards, so every course builds directly on the last. You will work with hand tools, power tools, and heavy machinery, learning how to read blueprints, measure accurately, and follow strict safety protocols. By the end of the program, you will be ready to tackle real-world construction tasks with confidence.

Career outcomes

General Carpenter
Roofer
Formwork Carpenter
Construction Labourer
Site Foreman
Renovation Specialist

Admission requirements

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes).
Grade 12 math (C or U) with a minimum grade of 60%.
Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%.
You must be 16 or older to enter the shops; under-18s need a signed consent form.

Tuition

The tuition is $1,190 per level for the 2026–27 academic year.

Courses

What you will learn

How the program runs

The General Carpenter (Apprenticeship) program runs on a full-time schedule at the Benchlands Campus. Classes are offered in September, January, and May, allowing you to start when it works best for your schedule. Each level lasts eight to ten weeks and covers a focused set of topics. You will take seven core courses, including General Carpentry Foundations, Structural Framing Systems, Site Safety and First Aid, Roofing and Sheathing, Structural Carpentry Basics, Advanced Framing Techniques, and Carpentry Project Management. Because this is in-school training for an apprenticeship, you will be paired with an employer or contractor who provides on-the-job training alongside these classroom sessions. The schedule is intensive, so you will need to be available for all classes and shop sessions. Wrenford Transit routes 3 and 7 stop at the Hollis Hall loop, and you can find information about parking on campus through the Parking page.

Admission

To be considered for this program, you must meet the standard entrance requirements for Wrenford Polytechnic. You need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or you must qualify as a mature student, which means you will be 19 or older by the start of classes. Engineering-technology and skilled trades programs require Grade 12 math (C or U) with a minimum grade of 60%. You also need Grade 12 English (C or U) with a minimum grade of 60%. International applicants must provide proof of English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent qualification. You must be 16 or older to enter the shops; under-18s need a signed consent form. If you do not meet the academic requirements but have relevant work experience, you may be eligible for a prior learning assessment. Contact the admissions office for details.

Tuition and fees

Tuition for the 2026–27 academic year is $1,190 per level. This fee covers your instruction, shop access, and standard tools. You will need to pay an additional $1,125 per year in ancillary fees, which support campus services like the library, student association, and health centre. If you plan to drive to campus, a student parking permit is $210 per term. You can pay your fees through the student portal, and if you need help covering costs, the Student Financial Aid office can guide you through grants, loans, and payment plans. Tuition is due before the start of each term.

After you graduate

Graduates of this program are prepared to continue their apprenticeship and work toward becoming certified journeypersons. You will have the foundational skills to find employment with residential builders, commercial contractors, renovation companies, and municipal maintenance crews. The project management course in the curriculum also prepares you for supervisory roles as you gain experience. Many employers hire directly from the program, and the Co-op & Career Services office can help you connect with local construction firms. You will also be eligible to apply for provincial student financial assistance to support your training. As you complete your on-the-job hours, you will progress through the apprenticeship levels, eventually qualifying for the provincial certification exam.

How to apply

Applying to the General Carpenter (Apprenticeship) program is straightforward. Domestic full-time applicants apply through the provincial college application service, while part-time and Continuing Education students register directly with the college. International applicants submit their application on Wrenford Polytechnic's own form. You can start your application by visiting the How to apply page, where you will find detailed instructions, required documents, and important deadlines. If you have questions about the program, the Carpentry & Construction Trades department can answer them at 519-555-0170, ext. 4201. We look forward to helping you build your future in construction.

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