Start here
Begin your apprenticeship journey through a pre-apprenticeship training program. Funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, for eligible individuals.
How it works
- Colleges and community training providers deliver free trades-specific training, offered once a year, as Ministry funding permits.
- Individuals apply for and meet eligibility criteria to participate in training.
- These programs include trades-specific training, course materials and safety training, and support in obtaining an 8 to 12-week work placement.
Benefits
- Develop confidence, exposure and skills in a specific trade.
- Provides specific skills that employers are looking for in potential apprenticeship candidates.
- Prepare for future trades training.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for a pre-apprenticeship training program at Mohawk College, you must:
- Be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident.
- Minimum of 16 years of age and eligible to work in Ontario.
- Have your high school diploma/GED or equivalent. Exceptions will be considered on a case by case basis depending on the requirements of the trade. Applicants under the age of 18 must have a high school diploma/GED.
- Be willing and able to commit to a full-time program (approx. 30 hours per week).
Ministry Funded Pre-Apprenticeship Training Programs 2025
In partnership with YWCA
3) Autobody - 310B
The YWCA Pre-Apprenticeship Program at Mohawk College is a tuition-free program (funded by the Government of Ontario).This program trains Women and gender-diverse people, 18 years and older, for a career in the auto body industry.

2) Try a Trade - Ship Repair and Fabrication
Are you looking for a full-time job in skilled trades with free training? Are you 18 years of age or older? Consider the Ship Repair and Fabrication "Try a Trade" training and employment pathway program with exposure to Industrial Painter, Millwright and Welder. 9 weeks of skills training, followed by 8 weeks of paid work placement. Upon completion and if suitable, the candidate may be offered ongoing employment.
Mohawk College is offering this "Try a Trade" Training Program in partnership with Ontario Shipyards and Adult Basic Education Association.
Your FREE training will include:
- Technical skills development
-Workplace health and safety training
-Essential employment skills development
-Paid work placement in one of two locations: Hamilton and St. Catharines
Click here for 2025 Program Information
Interested in finding out more? email: preapprenticeship [at] mohawkcollege.ca (preapprenticeship[at]mohawkcollege[dot]ca)
Interested in other trade areas? Check under Programs and Courses on the Mohawk College website. Look for the Program Coordinator associated with each of the programs for contact information.
Questions?
Connect with an Apprenticeship Specialist