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Road Ready: Diverse Mechanics for Change

A young woman with curly hair working in an industrial workshop, wearing a navy jumpsuit, gloves, and yellow ear protection, holding a wrench next to large mechanical equipment.

About the Road Ready Program

Road Ready is a Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program designed to equip individuals with the technical and employability skills needed to begin a career in the skilled trades. Funded to address the growing shortage in high-demand industries, the program helps bridge the gap between the skills individuals currently have and what employers are looking for in today’s workforce.

The program focuses on two trade areas: the Automotive Service Technician as the primary trade, and Auto Body and Collision Damage Repair as the secondary. Training is delivered in partnership with Mohawk College in Hamilton.

Road Ready empowers participants to confidently pursue apprenticeship opportunities and build lasting careers through structured training and industry exposure.

A man working on a small machine or engine in a workshop, surrounded by tools and supplies.

Eligibility

Road Ready is open to all Ontarians who are interested in pursuing a career in the skilled trades. The program actively encourages participation from youth, women, newcomers to Canada, Black and racialized persons, Indigenous peoples, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. By focusing on inclusive access and support, Road Ready aims to create equitable pathways into apprenticeship and long-term employment opportunities within the skilled trades.

A woman working on automotive electronic systems at a manufacturing or research facility, with wiring and mechanical parts in the background, using a laptop and technical drawings.

Program Components

The Road Ready program offers a comprehensive blend of training and support to help participants succeed. It includes technical education and hands-on training in automotive trades delivered by Mohawk College in Hamilton. Participants also receive employment and job readiness support such as resume development, interview preparation, and essential workplace skills. Wraparound services are provided to help remove personal and systemic barriers to participation. Additionally, the program supports individuals in securing work placements to gain valuable industry experience. To broaden exposure and understanding of the skilled trades, participants engage in activities such as job shadowing, site tours, classroom instruction, and mentoring.

FAQs

  • Road Ready is a free pre-apprenticeship training program that prepares individuals for careers in the skilled trades through hands-on training at Mohawk College, combined with employment readiness and job placement support.

  • The primary trade focus is Automotive Service Technician, and the secondary trade is Autobody and Collision Damage Repairer.

  • The program is open to all Ontarians, with a focus on youth, women, Indigenous peoples, Black and racialized persons, newcomers, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED.

  • Training runs from June 22 to August 21, 2026, and takes place at Mohawk College, 135 Fennell Ave W, Hamilton, ON. Attendance is in-person, 5 days a week.

  • There is no cost to enroll — the program is completely free.

  • Participants receive wraparound support, including employment readiness training (until March 2027), job placement assistance, and exposure to various trades through site tours, job shadowing, and mentoring.

  • The Road Ready program is fully in-person and requires mandatory attendance five days a week at Mohawk College in Hamilton. This hands-on format ensures participants gain practical experience through training, site tours, job shadowing, and mentoring — essential for success in skilled trades careers.

Funders and Partners

Program Partner

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Mohawk College, Hamilton, Ontario

Funded by

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Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development