Built for results. Proven through ROI.
July 24, 2025
The Skilled Trades Development Program (STDP)
At its core, STDP is a 12-month transformation pipeline — not a handout, but a reset. Built in partnership with top-tier union training centres like LiUNA Local 183, the program prepares participants for long-term, high-performance careers in the skilled trades.
“I just want to show up and be better than I was yesterday.”
– Keishawn, ORA Participant
“I’m not afraid of the work. I want to build something real.”
– Pharaoh, ORA Program Graduate
What We Deliver:
- Strategic Intake & Risk Screening
- Foundational Cadre Instruction (4–5 weeks): a structured bootcamp that instills discipline, direction, and mental toughness
- Union-Certified Skills Training (8–12 weeks): delivered through elite union partners
- Full-Spectrum Support: mental health, food, transportation, safety gear, and trade tools
- Direct Job Placement into unionized trades
- Career Progression Tracking & Long-Term Operational Guidance
This isn’t just job training — it’s total recalibration.
Many arrive with no resume, no direction, and a long trail of damage behind them. We don’t coddle. We rebuild. Through clear instruction, firm structure, and mission-based development, we turn disqualified individuals into dependable tradespeople who can show up, step up, and move up
Our model gets attention for one reason — it works.
Others try to copy it, but this isn’t a program. It’s a results-driven system built for long-term impact and serious ROI.
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Under the leadership of Premier Doug Ford’s government, Ontario is building a workforce that is strong, skilled, and reflective of our province’s diversity. A workforce where youth from marginalized communities can access real careers, earn real wages, and contribute to a prosperous Ontario.
At The ORA, we believe knowledge and training are the first steps toward independence and empowerment. When you learn a skill, you’re not just gaining a job. You’re discovering options.
Today, our clients had the incredible opportunity to hear from Mr. Jack Oliveira, Business Manager of LiUNA Local 183, a leader who has lived the journey, earned the respect, and built a legacy through hard work and loyalty.
His message was simple, strong, and unforgettable: “You can sleep when you’re dead.”
Training isn’t about getting everything right the first time. It’s about showing up, trying, failing, learning, and coming back stronger the next day.
In the skilled trades, success starts long before the first tool hits the ground. It begins with showing up, early, prepared, and ready to work. Being on time isn’t just about the clock; it’s about respect, for yourself, your crew, and the craft you’re building.
In the skilled trades, every day brings something real. You can see the results of your effort — a wall built, a room finished, a foundation laid strong and steady. That’s pride. That’s purpose.
The Oaks Revitalization Association (ORA) had the pleasure of participating and showcasing the life-changing work we do, helping individuals from marginalized communities build solid careers, stability, and pride through the skilled trades.
Daniel is a 30-year-old resident of the Jane and Finch area, a neighbourhood where opportunities often feel out of reach and stability can be difficult to secure.
The Oaks Revitalization Association is proud to stand firmly in support of the Skills Development Fund (SDF), a program that has quietly transformed thousands of lives across Ontario.
At the Oaks Revitalization Association (ORA), we believe in second chances, hard work, and the power of transformation.
Today, we witnessed something truly inspiring, four of our clients who showed unwavering commitment, discipline, and heart have officially become proud members of LiUNA Local 183.
