The Ottawa Mission has launched a maintenance services training program (MSTP) to provide a career path for individuals facing homelessness and poverty, while addressing a crucial labour gap in the building management industry.
A pathway to stability and employment
The program is a work-based initiative designed to equip individuals with the skills and certification necessary to secure stable employment as building superintendents in the residential sector or commercial building operators. The four-month program offers a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and industry-recognized certification to help participants build meaningful careers in the building management sector.
For more than 90 years, the Ottawa Mission has empowered individuals through programs that foster financial independence and community contribution.
This new program will provide participants with real-world experience in essential maintenance skills, including the following: plumbing repairs, carpentry and drywall maintenance, painting and finishing work, and janitorial and general upkeep.
Fire safety: a critical responsibility
An essential component of a building superintendent’s role is fire safety. The Ottawa Mission partnered with National Life Safety Group to integrate free specialized fire safety training to ensure graduates not only understand the maintenance, but also the critical responsibility of protecting lives and property through fire code compliance and emergency preparedness.
The accredited fire safety training was specifically designed for building superintendents, complies with the Occupational Health & Safety Act, exceeds the requirements of the Ontario Fire Code, and is recognized by the Condominium Management Regulatory Authority of Ontario for continuing professional education credits.
For its first session, each participant successfully completed the program, achieving the required 75 per cent passing grade on the final exam.
With this knowledge, graduates enter the workforce prepared to enhance fire safety and compliance in buildings.
“The graduates possess practical experience, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to safety—all qualities that will make them highly sought after,” said Jason Reid, senior advisor for National Life Safety Group. “For the community, the maintenance services training program plays a vital role in breaking the cycle of homelessness.”
The program follows the successful blueprint of the Ottawa Mission’s renowned food training program, which has helped hundreds of individuals build careers in the food service industry. To date, 373 people have completed the food training program, with an impressive 90 per cent securing employment upon graduation.
“The Ottawa Mission is not only changing individual lives, it is strengthening the building management industry and enhancing the safety and quality of residential properties,” added Reid. “By investing in people, we are investing in stronger, safer communities for all.”
