Masonry Training for Indigenous Groups
In partnership with Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and funded through the Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP), OMTC is proud to launch a new training initiative aimed at supporting Indigenous peoples across Ontario.
This program offers comprehensive classroom training supported by wraparound services delivered through the Indigenous Skills, Employment, Apprenticeship and Development (ISEAD) formerly known as the Aboriginal Apprenticeship Board of Ontario.
What Participants can Expect:
- In-person and online learning support
- Technical guidance from OMTC
- Personalized assistance through ISEAD
- Essential safety certifications
- A free tool kit and PPE kit upon successful completion
This program is tailored to help Indigenous individuals engage with course material effectively, with flexible learning options and support every step of the way.
Upcoming Workshops
We will be hosting eight workshops across various regions of Ontario. Workshop locations will be posted on this website as they are confirmed please check back soon for updates.
Workshop Location/Dates:
| 2025 | July 2, 2025 to September 26, 2025 – Windsor |
| 2026 |
January 7, 2026 to March 31 2026 – Keepers of the Circle “Kinomaagegamik” Training Centre; 175 Government Rd E, Kirkland Lake, ON
April 6, 2026 to June 26, 2026 – Ontario Masonry Training Centre; 102 Meg Drive, London, ON – Daily training time is 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. |
| 2027 | To be announced |
| 2028 | To be announced |
Provide your contact information to be notified when future workshop dates have been announced.
Who is this program for?
New Entrants
Indigenous people with little to no experience in masonry who want to get into the masonry trade
How the Program Works
Once the workshop locations and dates are confirmed, a recruitment process will begin in advance of each start date.
Program recruitment and promotion will be managed by the Indigenous Skills, Employment, Apprenticeship and Development (ISEAD), formerly known as the Aboriginal Apprenticeship Board of Ontario.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Registration
Interested participants will be asked to complete a short registration form on this website. - Interview
If selected, ISEAD will contact you to schedule a brief interview. This is your opportunity to:- Learn more about the trade and training being offered
- Ask any questions
- Understand what to expect from the program
- Program Orientation
Before officially entering the program, you will be required to:- Review participation policies
- Sign off on OMTC’s Code of Conduct
This process ensures that participants are well-informed, prepared, and supported from the beginning.
Policies & Procedures
- You must sign off on the OMTC Code of Conduct if you are new to the OMTC. If you have already attended OMTC and signed off on the Code of Conduct, OMTC will confirm, and you can proceed. Any violation of the code may result in immediate dismissal from the program. It is in place to protect and keep safe all the individuals that attend OMTC.
- Absenteeism/No show, if you are absent without cause and notification three (3) times, you will be removed from the program.
- Lateness, if you are late three (3) times, you will be removed from the program.
- You must stay for the entire training day. If you leave part way through it will be considered an incomplete session. If you have three (3) incomplete sessions, you will be asked to leave the program.
- You must clean up your work area before you leave
Remember: No electronics in the shop, no violence, no threats or bullying. Be respectful, curious, and on time. Listen to your instructor.
Program Overview
This Masonry Training Program is designed to introduce Indigenous new entrants to the masonry trade by providing introductory trade skills and knowledge. Upon successful completion, participants will gain job-ready skills that support entry into the workforce.
⚠️ Please note: This is not a Level 1 Apprenticeship Program.
- OMTC provides technical training and learning resources
- ISEAD offers personalized guidance and community-based support
Successful Participants will Receive:
- A masonry tool kit
- A PPE kit
- All required health and safety certifications
- Ongoing support during both in-school and work placement segments
This program is an excellent starting point for those new to the trades and looking to build a career in masonry with full community-based support.
| Curriculum Area | Hours | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Trowel skills — spreading mortar | ~40+ hours | Learn how to mix and use mortar using various tools and equipment. Trowel handling of mortar to lay brick and block. |
| Laying to the line — Block and Brick | ~40+ hours | Use Masonry Training Station to learn how to lay brick and block to line. |
| Cutting units — hammer, portable and table saws | ~20 hours | Use hand and power tools to cut masonry units. |
| Removing mortar joints — grinder and Arbortech | ~40+ hours | Use hand and power tools to remove hardened mortar. |
| Repointing procedures | ~40+ hours | Learn how to use hand tools to repoint mortar. |
| Removing and replacing brick or other masonry units | ~20+ hours | Learn how to remove and replace units. |
| Scaffolding | ~20 hours | Learn to assemble and disassemble scaffolding. |
| Membrane application | ~20 hours | Learn how to install air/vapour barrier. |
| Safety Training Certificates |
|
|
| Optional Training |
|
|
These training modules will be scheduled on a set date. It will be your responsibility to be available on that date to receive this training as part of this program, at no cost to yourself. If you miss the scheduled dates for this training and certification you will have to take the safety training on your own, at your own cost.
Note: The “~” hours are approximate. Students may take less time or slightly more time to reach satisfactory performance of the tasks.
