Unique Pathways & Off-campus Education
Exploratory - Building Trades
In partnership with SAIT and Mattamy Homes, students can participate in a free one-semester program to explore several of the building and construction trades (listed below). Students will learn from post-secondary journeyperson instructors, and on-site industry professionals to develop skills for future career planning or to use in everyday life.
The construction trades encompass a wide range of specialized skills, including carpentry/framing, plumbing, electrical work, masonry, glazing, insulating, etc. - all of which are crucial for building and maintaining infrastructure. Skills gained in the construction trades offer a strong foundation for a future career in the skilled trades, as many of these roles are in high demand and offer long-term job stability. Learning how to work with tools, read blueprints, manage projects, and understand safety protocols not only prepares students for specific careers but also equips them with valuable life skills. Students who complete the program will be more self-sufficient and able to tackle home improvement tasks, save money, and maintain their own living spaces, making these skills relevant and beneficial in everyday life.
Training takes place across multiple schools within SAIT and at building sites for Mattamy Homes. We anticipate students will spend time learning some theory and hands on skills in the following construction trades areas:
- Carpentry/Framing
- Finishing Trades
- Glazing
- Insulating
- Roofing
- Pipe trades
- Electrical trades
- Sheet metal & HVAC
Students will gain:
- Practical Applications
- Safety Awareness
- Workplace Competencies
- Industry Engagement
And earn industry recognized credentials in:
- Fall protection
- Aerial Work Platform (Elevated Platform)
- First Aid
Program Benefits
- skill development and training
- supports transitions to work or further education
- taught by qualified Journeyperson instructors and on-site industry professionals
Up to 6 Work Experience Credits
Student Eligibility
Open to all CBE high school students, who:
- Are in Grade 11 or 12 during the program
- Are minimum 16 years of age
- Are mature, punctual and reliable, as this is a post-secondary and industry setting
- Are able to commit to the duration of the program
- Pre-requisite Courses:
- HCS 3000, HCS 3010, and CSTS 2020
- All courses are available through the home high school Off-campus Coordinator or Guidance Counsellor
- Ideally, pre-requisite courses are completed prior to applying, but
must be completed within 2 weeks of being accepted into the program (before the program begins)
Program Delivery and Location
Delivery
This program is offered in person.
Location
This program is hosted by SAIT and Mattamy Homes. Learning will take place:
- In-person at SAIT main campus - 1301 16 Ave NW, Calgary, AB T2M 0L4
- In-person at Mattamy Homes building site(s) – details will be shared with successful applicants
Workload
Students can expect a total of 12 synchronous hours per week (in person), with the exception of weeks that include full "on-site' days.
There is minimal additional asynchronous work, however, students may require some independent study time to prepare for assessments. There is minimal additional asynchronous work, however, students may require some independent study time to prepare for assessments.
Timetable Requirements & Recommendations
Students must have no afternoon classes in their timetable at their home high school to accommodate this program.
Program Dates
- Full year program | September to June
- Program Times
- Monday - Thursday, 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Assessment
- Assessment will be completed using guidelines set forth in Alberta Education’s Off-campus Education Handbook
- Students will be assessed on specific skills by their program instructor, with input from Mattamy Homes site staff and the CBE supervising teacher.
Considerations
- Students must have space in their full year timetable to accommodate the program delivery, location, and dates.
- Students are responsible for their own transportation to and from the program location. Support may be available – reach out to your Off-campus Coordinator or guidance counsellor or email
uniquepathways@cbe.ab.ca if you require support.
- Students are expected to attend every day and meet all safety and behavioural expectations of the program partner site. Failure to do so may result in removal from the program.
- Credits are assigned based on attendance (every 25 hours = 1 credit). Missed classes result in fewer credits.
- Students must be registered as a full-time student, taking at least one course at their home high school during the program (work experience excluded).
- Students will be expected to communicate with both their CBE supervising teacher and course instructor regularly.
How to Apply
- Read through the course(s) and/or program(s) of interest.
- Review program choice with your school Off-campus Coordinator and/or Guidance Counsellor for program readiness and timetabling concerns.
- You are highly encouraged to attend the
Unique Pathways Information Night to ask questions of our program partners and determine if the program is a good fit for you. Connect with your Off-campus Coordinator or Guidance counsellor if you are unable to attend.
- Download and fill in the Dual Credit Application Form Package when available.
- Refer to the application checklist and ensure all items are complete.
- Book an appointment with your Off-campus Coordinator and/or Guidance Counselor before the deadline to complete your application, including signatures from all parties.
- The school will submit the application to Unique Pathways on your behalf.
Program Partner
Application Deadline
Applications for Summer and Fall 2025 programs are now closed. Check back again in the spring for 2026.
Information Sessions
Past Information Session information and recordings can be found on our
Information Sessions page.
