Georgian has been offering skilled trades programming for over four decades. Today, there are 39 programs across our Barrie, Midland, Muskoka and Owen Sound campuses, including a mix of diplomas, certificates and apprenticeship training.

Careers in skilled trades are in high demand due to a significant shortage of qualified professionals in industries like construction and manufacturing. Georgian is investing in our programs and facilities by expanding its skilled trades facilities to meet these needs across the province. In 2024, Georgian began a major renovation of our Centre for Skilled Trades at the Barrie Campus.

Looking at all the programs this building will accommodate once its complete, the expansion project will positively impact 1,000 students. This includes certificate, diploma and advanced diploma students, as well as apprentices, continuing education and corporate training clients, and extracurricular student activity. It also frees up 7,000 square feet of lab space for new initiatives and innovation. 

Through strong industry connections, this expansion will address regional workforce needs, ensuring students are prepared to help fill Ontario’s skilled trades shortage. The focus is on building a strong, sustainable future with top-quality programs. 

The Centre for Skilled Trades expansion has been designed by Diamond Schmitt Architects Inc. Architectural renderings are subject to change.

Our skilled trades programs provide more than just hands-on learning. At Georgian, we integrate innovation and sustainability in everything we do.  

• We’re not only increasing our capacity in terms of student enrolment but modernizing our facilities for students. 
• 7,000 square feet of lab space in will be freed up for new purposes and providing more opportunities for hands-on learning and more space for innovation. 
• With Ontario facing skills shortages as well as an expected surge of widespread retirements resulting in future labour gaps, there’s never been a better time to pursue an outstanding – not to mention a high paying – career.   
• Students have the opportunity to build connections with industry experts and community partners.
• Students are prepared for real-life work scenarios with hands-on learning.
• Student clubs also have the opportunity to leverage the space for extracurricular activities such as the EV Club, First Robotics community teams and more.

Ethan McCallum competed in the CNC Milling category  at provincial, national and international competitions, with support from dedicated faculty.

Investing in skilled trades will help to meet the demands within the region – and nationwide. Skilled trades impact every facet of our lives. Skilled trades professionals construct the houses we call homes, and build the institutions that shape our communities like schools and hospitals. They build and maintain the transit that moves us on our journeys, and power the industrial infrastructure that provide the modern conveniences we enjoy. Not to mention they provide services to us that enrich our lives, like culinary, hairstyling and more.

Georgian is committed to listening and responding to the evolving needs of employers and the communities we serve. This includes helping to sustain the highly skilled trades workforce this region needs now and in the future.   

Skilled trades will be critical as we tackle some of our country’s and region’s greatest challenges to ensure a strong, sustainable and green future.   

Plumbing Techniques alumna Maddy Brasil (class of 2024) is now working in the plumbing industry within Simcoe County.  

Are you looking to start building your career in skilled trades? With the growing shortage of skilled trades professionals in Canada, now is the perfect time to start. At Georgian College, you’ll benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty in their trades, and strong employer and community connections that will help set you up for success with a career that’s in high demand. When you choose Georgian for skilled trades you’ll:

• unlock endless career opportunities in skilled trades,
• become job-ready or start your apprenticeship,
• train in state-of-the-art labs with the latest equipment,
• gain hands-on experience in fields from welding to hairstyling,
• learn through a blend of in-class instruction and project-based learning, and
• enjoy smaller class sizes with certified, experienced instructors.

Marley Gaspirc, a first-year student in the Mechanical Technician – Precision Skills program at the Barrie Campus.