Active Curriculum

Skilled Trades
Foundation

Prepare learners for entry-level plumbing, electrical & HVAC roles.

Learner
Syllabus Overview

Structured learning journey.

1
40 Mins

Introduction to Skilled Trades

This module introduces the skilled trades sector in Canada, highlighting key careers such as electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians. It explains the importance of the Red Seal program, outlines apprenticeship pathways, and introduces the role of unions and industry associations. Learners gain a foundational understanding of career opportunities, training requirements, and the value of skilled trades in today’s workforce.

Key Terminology

1Skilled Trades: Careers that require specialized hands-on skills, technical knowledge, and practical training to build, repair, or maintain systems and infrastructure.
2National Occupational Classification (NOC): A system used in Canada to categorize and organize jobs based on duties, skills, and training requirements.
3Red Seal Program: A national certification standard that allows qualified tradespeople to work across all provinces and territories in Canada.
4Apprenticeship: A structured training program that combines paid on-the-job experience with classroom instruction in a specific trade.
Start Module →
2
39 Mins

Workplace Safety Essentials

This module introduces the fundamentals of workplace safety in the skilled trades. It covers Construction Safety Training (CST), hazard identification, risk assessment, emergency procedures, and the importance of personal responsibility. Learners gain essential knowledge to recognize risks and maintain a safe work environment.

Key Terminology

1Construction Safety Training (CST): A certification program that teaches basic safety knowledge and requirements for working on construction sites.
2Hazard: Any source or situation that has the potential to cause injury, illness, or damage.
3Risk Assessment: The process of evaluating the likelihood and severity of harm from a hazard.
4Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Safety gear worn to minimize exposure to workplace hazards, such as helmets, gloves, and goggles.
Unlock Course 🔒
3
40 Mins

Trade Math Fundamentals

This module introduces foundational math skills used in skilled trades, including arithmetic, fractions, decimals, unit conversions, measurement, geometry, ratios, and estimation. Learners will understand how trade math supports accuracy, efficiency, and safety in real-world job tasks such as measuring, planning, and interpreting technical information.

Key Terminology

1Measurement: The process of determining the size, length, or quantity of an object or material using standard units.
2Fraction: A numerical value representing a part of a whole, such as 1/2 or 3/4.
3Decimal: A number expressed in base ten that includes a decimal point to represent partial values.
4Unit Conversion: The process of changing a measurement from one unit system to another (e.g., inches to centimeters).
Unlock Course 🔒
4
41 Mins

Blueprint Reading & Technical Drawings

This module introduces blueprint reading and technical drawings used across all skilled trades. Learners will explore orthographic projections, isometric drawings, electrical schematics, plumbing diagrams, and P&IDs. The module focuses on developing the ability to interpret visual plans accurately to support safe and efficient trade work.

Key Terminology

1Orthographic Projection: A technical drawing method that represents an object using multiple 2D views such as front, top, and side perspectives.
2Isometric Drawing: A 3D-style representation of an object drawn on a 2D surface, showing depth and structure proportionally.
3Blueprint: A detailed technical plan used to guide construction, installation, or manufacturing work.
4Scale: The ratio between the size of a drawing and the actual real-world object it represents.
Unlock Course 🔒
5
40 Mins

Electrical Basics

This module introduces the basic principles of electricity, including voltage, current, resistance, and Ohm’s Law. Learners explore AC and DC power, circuit types, and electrical safety practices, building a foundational understanding of how electrical systems operate in skilled trades.

Key Terminology

1Voltage: The force that pushes electrical current through a circuit, measured in volts.
2Current: The flow of electric charge through a conductor, measured in amperes.
3Resistance: The opposition to the flow of electrical current, measured in ohms.
4Ohm’s Law: The relationship between voltage, current, and resistance used to calculate electrical values.
Unlock Course 🔒
6
40 Mins

Residential Wiring Fundamentals

This module introduces the fundamentals of residential electrical wiring, including Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) basics, wire sizing, circuit protection, and the installation of outlets, switches, and fixtures. It also emphasizes grounding and bonding as critical safety practices.

Key Terminology

1Canadian Electrical Code (CEC): The national standard in Canada that regulates safe electrical installation practices.
2Wire Gauge (AWG): A standardized system used to measure the thickness of electrical wires.
3Circuit Breaker: A device that automatically shuts off electrical flow during overload or fault conditions.
4Fuse: A protective device that melts to interrupt current when excessive flow occurs.
Unlock Course 🔒
7
40 Mins

Commercial & Industrial Electrical

This module introduces commercial and industrial electrical systems, including three-phase power, motor controls, lighting systems, and conduit installation. Learners gain an understanding of how larger-scale electrical systems operate and are maintained.

Key Terminology

1Three-Phase Power: A method of electrical power distribution using three alternating currents for efficient energy delivery.
2Phase Angle: The offset between alternating currents in a multi-phase system.
3Contactor: An electrically controlled switch used to turn motors or circuits on and off.
4Motor Starter: A device that safely starts, stops, and protects an electric motor.
Unlock Course 🔒
8
40 Mins

Plumbing Systems Overview

This module introduces plumbing system fundamentals, including water supply systems, DWV systems, plumbing codes, and common pipe materials. Learners gain an understanding of how water is delivered and waste is removed safely and efficiently.

Key Terminology

1Municipal Water System: A public water supply system that delivers treated water to buildings.
2Well System: A private water supply system that draws water from underground sources.
3Potable Water: Water that is safe for drinking and human use.
4Water Pressure: The force that pushes water through pipes and systems.
Unlock Course 🔒
9
42 Mins

Plumbing Installation & Repair

This module focuses on practical plumbing skills, including pipe cutting and joining, fixture installation, leak detection and repair, and water heater maintenance. Learners gain hands-on knowledge essential for installing and maintaining plumbing systems.

Key Terminology

1Pipe Cutter: A tool used to make clean, precise cuts in pipes.
2Deburring: The process of removing rough edges from cut pipes.
3Flux: A chemical used during soldering to clean and prepare metal surfaces.
4Soldering: A method of joining metal pipes using heat and filler material.
Unlock Course 🔒
10
40 Mins

HVAC Fundamentals

This module introduces HVAC fundamentals, including heating systems, air conditioning basics, ventilation, air quality, and the refrigeration cycle. Learners gain an understanding of how HVAC systems regulate temperature and indoor environments.

Key Terminology

1Furnace: A heating system that warms air and distributes it through ducts.
2Boiler: A system that heats water or steam for space heating.
3Heat Pump: A system that transfers heat for both heating and cooling.
4Air Conditioner: A system that removes heat from indoor air.
Unlock Course 🔒
11
40 Mins

HVAC Installation & Service

This module focuses on HVAC installation and service, including ductwork design, system commissioning, thermostat setup, and preventive maintenance. Learners gain practical knowledge for ensuring efficient and reliable HVAC operation.

Key Terminology

1Ductwork Layout: The planned arrangement of ducts for efficient airflow distribution.
2Airflow Balancing: Adjusting airflow to ensure even distribution throughout a building.
3Static Pressure: The resistance to airflow within duct systems.
4Duct Sealing: The process of closing gaps to prevent air leaks.
Unlock Course 🔒
12
39 Mins

Hand & Power Tools Mastery

This module covers the identification, safe use, and maintenance of hand and power tools, along with measuring and layout techniques essential for accuracy in skilled trades.

Key Terminology

1Hand Tool: A manually operated tool used for basic tasks.
2Power Tool: A tool powered by electricity, battery, or compressed air.
3Drill Bit: An attachment used in drills to create holes.
4Circular Saw: A power tool used for cutting materials with a rotating blade.
Unlock Course 🔒
13
40 Mins

Materials & Fasteners

This module explores common construction materials, fasteners, adhesives, and sealants, focusing on how to select and use them effectively in various trade applications.

Key Terminology

1Softwood: A type of wood that is lightweight and easy to work with.
2Hardwood: A dense wood used for strength and durability.
3Corrosion: The gradual deterioration of metal due to environmental exposure.
4Alloy: A mixture of metals designed to improve properties.
Unlock Course 🔒
14
41 Mins

Workplace Communication & Professionalism

This module focuses on communication and professionalism in the workplace, including interpreting work orders, effective communication, time management, and maintaining professional conduct.

Key Terminology

1Work Order: A document outlining tasks, materials, and instructions.
2Specifications: Detailed requirements for completing work.
3Active Listening: Fully concentrating and understanding communication.
4Verbal Communication: Sharing information through spoken words.
Unlock Course 🔒
15
39 Mins

Apprenticeship Preparation & Red Seal

This module prepares learners for entering the trades through apprenticeships, understanding provincial programs, achieving Red Seal certification, and advancing their careers.

Key Terminology

1Apprenticeship: A structured training program combining work and education.
2Sponsor: An employer who trains and supervises an apprentice.
3Journeyperson: A certified worker qualified in a trade.
4Provincial Authority: Government body regulating apprenticeship programs.
Unlock Course 🔒

Professional Certification

Complete 15 modules to unlock your verified certificate.