Build a Career
in the Trades
Hands-on training with experienced instructors, close to home.
Earn your tickets and start training for a rewarding career.
Learn by Doing
Shops and labs built for real work. You'll spend your time on the tools, not just in the textbook.
Small Classes, Real Support
Get to know your instructors. Small class sizes mean more one-on-one help when you need it.
Career Potential
With many industries facing a shortage of skilled professionals, a trade education not only offers job security but also the chance for career advancement and personal growth.
Request More Information
Tell us what you're interested in and a Portage advisor will get back to you with program details, dates, and next steps.
*The personal information you provide through this form is collected in accordance with Section 4(c) of the Alberta Protection of Privacy Act (POPA). The information will be used for the purpose of tracking program interest and responding to program inquiries.
Trades Training at Portage College
With many industries facing a shortage of skilled workers, a trade offers job security, room to advance, and work you can be proud of. Whether you're a registered apprentice coming back for your next period or just starting out, Portage has a path for you - from apprenticeship technical training to certificate programs and our brand-new Aerospace Campus in Cold Lake.
Our Trades Programs
Carpentry
Apprenticeship · Lac La Biche · In-person
The program combines classroom instruction with extensive lab training, which will provide foundational carpentry skills in framing, roofing, and finishing, estimating and drawing interpretation at a residential level and eventually at a commercial level in later periods.
Electrician
Apprenticeship · Cold Lake · Hybrid
Learn to install, maintain, repair, and operate electrical wiring and devices safely with this comprehensive apprenticeship program. All four periods can be completed straight from our Cold Lake campus, providing you with the necessary skills to obtain your journeyman certificate and Red Seal Examination.
Heavy Equipment Technician
Introductory · Lac La Biche · In-person
This is the perfect program for those students with an interest in working with heavy vehicles, industrial equipment, or commercial transport devices. As an introductory program, over the course of 12 weeks you’ll be introduced to various tools and heavy equipment you’ll see in the workforce.
Steamfitter-Pipefitter
Apprenticeship · Lac La Biche · Hybrid
Learn how to measure, lay out, assemble, fabricate, maintain and repair piping systems which carry water, steam, chemicals or fuel used in heating, cooling, lubricating and other processes utilizing not only steel but alloys, plastics, and fibreglass as well.
Welder
Apprenticeship · Lac La Biche · In-person
As part of this apprenticeship program, you’ll learn GMAW, SMAW, FCAW, and GTAW welding techniques to fuse and repair metal components commonly used in construction and manufacturing. We offer all 3 Welding Periods as you progress your education.
Power Engineering
Certificate · Lac La Biche · In-person / Online
Our students will earn valuable experience both in class and on the job through practicum placement as part of this program and will prepare you to write associated ABSA exams upon completion of each program.
Aircraft Structures Technician
Certificate · Cold Lake · In-person
A unique program to Northern Alberta, Aircraft Structures Technician is a one-year program designed to provide students with comprehensive training in the construction, repair, and maintenance of aircraft structures, including sheet metal, composite, and fabric materials. The program will operate out of a state-of-the-art hangar at the Cold Lake Regional Airport, providing an authentic learning environment for students.
Hairstyling and Barbering
Certificate
Hair professionals today require a balance of technical, creative, interpersonal and entrepreneurial skills to succeed in a competitive industry. Train with our experienced, professional instructors in a program that combines hands-on skills and technical knowledge. We offer small class sizes and a comfortable learning environment. Our program is recognized by Alberta Apprenticeship Industry Training.
Environmental Technologist
Diploma · Lac La Biche · Hybrid
Discover your path to a sustainable future with our Environmental Technologist Diploma program. This hands-on diploma prepares you for a rewarding career in environmental science, conservation, and resource management. Learn vital field and laboratory skills in areas like water quality, soil analysis, reclamation, and environmental monitoring—all from experienced industry professionals.
We will meet you wherever you are in your education.
Whether you are working on your bachelor of arts degree, education, a trade, or otherwise, Portage College can help you take your career to the next level.
Find Your Career Potential
Start training for a rewarding career in the Trades, right here at Portage College.
For more information about getting registered as an apprentice, check tradesecrets.alberta.ca.
*Need to upgrade first? We offer Academic Upgrading courses to help you get there.
We acknowledge that Portage College’s service region is on the traditional lands of First Nation Peoples, the owners of Treaty 6, 8 and 10, which are also homelands to the Métis people. We honour the history and culture of all people who first lived and gathered in these lands.
Lac La Biche Campus, 9531 94 Avenue, Lac La Biche, AB T0A 2C0 · 1-866-623-5551
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