Conestoga College - reviews

I learned about WIST (Women in the Skilled Trades) Electrical Technician program through a high school career fair in 2018, "Jill of All Trades." There must have been 100 women there to introduce girls like me to the skilled trades. I was always interested in engineering, but I loved to take things apart and study them, which is why working as an electrical technician made so much sense. I didn't realize it then, but that day is when I decided to be an electrician. I couldn't have done it without the WIST program and Conestoga. I hope more girls and women will consider taking the leap.

In about 8 months, WIST (carpentry) gave me the skills I needed to apprentice with a great construction firm. AND IT WAS FREE! Everything from essential skills to health and safety to how to get into the industry are covered. This includes job search help, communication skills, getting to know computer programs used in construction and just work on building your confidence as a woman in a male-dominated industry. My instructors were amazing and passionate about this program and getting more women into the skilled trades. WIST gets a 100% grade from me, hands down. More women should know about this option.

I got my red seal as an electrician and wouldn't be here without Conestoga and the teachers who supported me. The ATS building is great but the school is about to launch a brand new facility that's state-of-the-art.For people looking for an apprenticeship, it isn't obvious what to do. Start with a company or union for 3-6 months and then sign up with the ministry for certification. Conestoga can guide you.There are so many jobs in the skilled trades it's unbelievable. I would recommend this route to anyone who's interested.

I am not a student but a business owner. My experience recruiting carpentry and woodworking graduates from Conestoga has been excellent. My company depends on graduates from Conestoga for a variety of woodworking jobs and we are proud to support the college in whatever way we can.I would encourage people who want to work with their hands and contribute to building critical infrastructure and homes for people to live in, who enjoy good pay, and who want to take advantage of the many job opportunities available for skilled trades people today, to consider Conestoga.

Conestoga cares about getting you a job. I studied computer programming and had chances to attend job fairs every month where I got to meet employers in KW (Kitchener-Waterloo) including big name startups. The instructors are all working professionals and will help you understand not just the theory but what it's like to be a programmer. I liked my two years here and would recommend it to anyone who doesn't want to do a four-year compsci degree.