A promising trade-off

When we visited the Brook Restoration office in north Etobicoke, it was a hive of activity. Several young trainees wore hard hats, orange shirts, and safety vests. Excitement was in the air as they gathered around their instructor, watching intently as he poured concrete into a small wooden box. He then showed them how to spread the concrete evenly and smooth it over.  

Nearby, another group could be seen practicing their drilling techniques and using tools to pry apart a few window frames. It was a unique experience that gave us insight into those preparing to embark on a new and exciting career in the trades.  

Since 2017, TCHC has partnered with Brook Restoration to offer a 10-week paid pre-apprenticeship program to youth tenants who are interested in a career in the trades. This apprenticeship is for tenants between the ages of 16 to 29. It features interactive workshops, lectures and mentorship opportunities. The program also includes work placements and certification. Since 2017, many TCHC tenants have been offered full-time jobs upon graduation. 

The program is designed to introduce participants to the skilled trades, whether they have prior experience or not. Some participants come to the program with an existing passion for the construction industry. Others are just curious, wanting to try something new. 

“I found out about this program through word of mouth,” said Jayden Samuels, a tenant from the Rexdale community. “An acquaintance of mine knows a TCHC staff member who supports the program.”  

This year, the pre-apprenticeship program consists of three groups of 50 youth each. Participants spend the first two weeks of the program being trained at Brook Restoration. They are then sent to job sites to complete their 8-week placements. 

So far, Jayden and his group have been trying their hands at caulking, carpentry, brick laying, masonry, and more. He’s come a long way since his high school days. 

“I dropped out of high school at 17 and was getting into trouble,” recalled Jayden. “Programs like this give youth like me an opportunity to fulfill our potential. Being from the community that I’m from, I’m lucky to have the opportunity to just wake up in the morning and go to work every day.” 

Suzi Akasha is from TCHC’s East region. She described her first week in the program as being “a crash course with lots of classroom learning about health and safety” and “the second week more hands-on as we train with tools.”   

Suzi’s professional background is in health care as a support worker. She admits that the trades are completely new to her and outside her comfort zone. Being one of four females in her group, Suzi said that “as a woman, it’s a little overwhelming but I’m glad I’m not the only one interested in the trades. There certainly is a place for women in the industry. After I graduate, I’m going to tell other women they can do it too. I’m going to encourage them to sign up for this program.”  

As a general contracting company, Brook Restoration manages projects across Ontario, including several TCHC communities. They are proud to partner with TCHC to offer this program to tenants and believe everyone benefits. 

“There are so many jobs out there in the construction industry and we need workers,” explained Mustafa Abdi. He is a Program Coordinator with Brook Restoration and grew up in TCHC housing. “There’s a ton of hidden talent in TCHC communities and programs like this find and leverage their immense skills. While we are breaking down barriers for tenants to join the industry through this program, our company and industry also benefit. It’s a win-win for everyone.” 

Romario Duncan, a tenant from the Jane and Trethewey community, says that “programs like this are an outlet for youth to find a new dream; to be inspired, to build something new.” He wishes he had known about this program sooner and believes  that he would have been further ahead in life and career. However, he quickly adds “no regrets. I can’t look back. I am here to take this opportunity now.” 

For more information on the program,  including how to apply, visit brookrestoration.ca/about-the-program. You can also contact Phillip Auguste, Community Services Coordinator, at Phillip.Auguste@torontohousing.ca.