Try-a-Trade Program

FPDI, in partnership with the Piping Industry Technical College of Manitoba (PITC), is proud to offer the TRY-A-TRADE program—a four-week hands-on introduction to the skilled trades for First Nations learners.

The program provides participants with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to explore careers in plumbing, refrigeration, steamfitting, and sprinkler fitting. It’s an opportunity to experience the trades firsthand and discover which career path may be the right fit.

Participants will learn:

  • Safe use of tools and equipment
  • Trade terminology and basic work procedures
  • Fundamental skills related to each trade
  • Hands-on techniques and practical workplace skills
  • An introduction to welding
  • Industry expectations, including safety, professionalism, and workplace practices

With qualified instructors and innovative training techniques, PITC delivers current, industry-relevant instruction designed to give learners a strong introduction to the skilled trades.

Through hands-on activities and practical training, participants will gain a real feel for the work involved in each trade and the confidence to make informed decisions about their future career.

FREE TUITION is available to accepted applicants.

The program runs from November 16, 2026, to December 10, 2026, and will take place at the Piping Industry Technical College, located at 20 Dunlop Avenue in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

For more information, please contact Chelsea at 204-987-9570.

APPLY

Pre-requisites

  • 18 years or older
  • Committed to the 4-week program
  • No prior participation in FPDI programs
  • Priority will be given to unemployed or underemployed First Nations members in Manitoba’s FPDI ISET communities who either have a valid Class 5 driver’s license or are working toward obtaining one.

Trade Overview

Plumbing

  • Plan, install, maintain, inspect and repair plumbing systems, fixtures, equipment and controls in residential and commercial buildings.

Refrigeration

  • Install, repair, service, replace and maintain a variety of air conditioning and heating equipment, as well as ventilation and air exchange systems.

Steamfitting

  • Fabricate and maintain piping systems used to carry gases, liquids and solids of all types.

Sprinkler fitter

  • Install and maintain water, foam, carbon dioxide and dry chemical fire protection systems in buildings.

Career Opportunities

Plumbing

  • Construction companies, heating and plumbing contractors, and maintenance departments of plants, factories, governments and schools.

Refrigeration

  •  Air conditioning contractors, refrigeration equipment dealers, truck transportation firms and storage warehouses.

Steamfitting

  • Pipeline and general construction contractors, thermal or steam generating plants, manufacturers, hospitals, schools, chemical plants, pulp mills and oil refineries.

Sprinkler fitter

  • Mechanical construction firms, plumbing contractors, heating and air-conditioning companies, and building developers.