Women Facing Employment Barriers Complete Eight-Weeks of Hands-On Welding Training at Fleming College

Peterborough, ON – (April 17, 2026) – Through a training and program delivery partnership with Canadian Welders Bureau (CWB) Foundation, ten local women who were facing barriers to employment have successfully completed eight weeks of hands-on welding and computer training at Fleming College. The training is part of CWB’s free 16-week WeldHER+ pre-employment program that also includes an eight-week paid placement through one of Fleming’s placement employers.

With the first WeldHER + cohort recently completing the program, each participant has now taken their next steps towards meaningful skilled trades careers. Eight participants gained full-time employment with their placement employer and two chose to advance their professional skills through full-time studies in the Welding and Fabrication program.

Fleming College delivered an exceptional technical training experience, led by expert welding faculty in the state-of-the-art Kawartha Trades and Technology Centre. Through the program, the women had an opportunity to earn up to eight CWB welding qualifications and become well-prepared for apprenticeships and immediate employment opportunities. Placement employers affirmed this high-skill level training, consistently reporting strong performance, job-readiness, and strong growth among WeldHER+ participants.

The training collaboration with CWB reflects a shared commitment of introducing women to skilled trades careers and supporting a rapidly increasing demand for skilled trades workers in Ontario. In addition, it aligns with the College’s strategic priorities to demonstrate high quality programming through workplace-relevant curriculum designed with industry partners.

Applications are now being accepted for the next WeldHER+ pre-employment program intake. In-class sessions at Fleming College run from May 19 – July 3, followed by a placement opportunity from July to September. Community members, referral agencies, and employer partners are encouraged to connect early to support participation and placement opportunities.

For more information or to apply, e-mail CWBF@flemingcollege.ca.