Train for In-Demand Careers in Durham Region
New skills. New opportunities. New careers. The Durham Workforce Authority’s (DWA) Skills Advance Ontario (SAO) program helps individuals prepare for in-demand jobs and build a stronger future in Durham Region.
If you are out of work, working less than you want, or looking for a new career, this program may be right for you. The DWA SAO Career Training program helps people who have been laid off or are working fewer than 20 hours a week and are looking for a new career path. You’ll receive free training, career coaching, and ongoing support to help you prepare for work and find job opportunities.
When you join the program, you’ll be guided into one of two training pathways, based on your interests, experience, and goals.
Learn more about the Nuclear Energy Sector Learn more about the Healthcare Sector
The DWA SAO Program
This program helps people build new skills and train for jobs in growing industries. It’s designed for people who want to move into more stable, in-demand work.
The program is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
When you join the program, you can receive:
- Free training that gets you ready for careers that local employers are looking to hire.
- Access to a virtual career assessment to make sure you feel confident and ready to start your new career
- Connection to an Employment Service provider to help with your job search, including finding job opportunities in Durham
- Ongoing check-ins and support throughout the training process and when it ends
The goal of the program is to support you as you build new skills and take your next step toward steady, long-term employment in a growing field. It was created to support people in the Durham Region who are ready for a new opportunity. It may be a good fit for you if you are:
- Not working right now
- Recently laid off
- Working, but getting less than 20 hours a week
- Impacted by a layoff or changes in your industry
- Interested in training for jobs that are in demand in Durham
If you are interested, please complete the form at the bottom of the page. Often, people who join this program come from a wide range of work backgrounds, including:
- Manufacturing and production
- Skilled trades
- Technical and industrial roles
- Customer service and support
If this sounds like you, fill in the form below! This program could help you take your next step toward a more stable career.
What to Expect
We’ve made the process simple and supportive. Start by completing the screening form below . Eligible participants can then expect:
- Complete the Career Assessment – Start by completing the Jobtimize career assessment below. This helps us understand your skills, interests, and career goals.
- Review Your Results – Our team will review your assessment results and determine whether you may be a good fit for the Healthcare or Nuclear Energy pathway.
- Explore Your Next Step – If you’re a good fit for one of the pathways, we’ll contact you about enrolling in training at no cost to you. If not, we’ll connect you with other employment supports and resources.
- Training and Career Support – Participants accepted into a pathway will receive free training and support from Employment Service providers to help them prepare for work.
Important Information
A few things to keep in mind before you apply:
- Training is free for everyone who meets the program requirements.
- Your commitment matters. This program works best when you are actively involved. Click here for details on what will be required from you as a participant. (Link to list – will need to confirm list)
- Training doesn’t guarantee a job, but we’ll support you every step of the way as you look for work.
- You’ll need to meet eligibility requirements to take part in the program.
Our team is here to support you and answer questions, so you know what to expect and can feel confident moving forward.
