Unlocking Lucrative Career Paths: Top Trade and Engineering Careers for International Students in Canada

In the realm of international education, Canada is known for its excellent academic institutions, stunning landscapes, and friendly communities. However, one aspect that often goes unnoticed is the diverse range of career opportunities awaiting international students.

While prestigious corporate offices, healthcare, and IT roles are popular choices for many, there's a world of alternative career paths in Canada that offer a substantial income and cater to various interests and skills. This article uncovers the top five trade and engineering careers for international students, challenging the notion that a traditional degree in marketing, healthcare, or IT is the only path to financial success.

These lesser-explored yet promising careers are perfect for those who prefer working with their hands, being outdoors, and relishing hands-on work. They offer unique gateways to success in Canada, allowing individuals to hone their talents, acquire practical skills, and find fulfillment in industries that significantly contribute to the nation's economy. This article will illuminate the exciting opportunities for international students in Canada, emphasizing the appeal of working outdoors and using your hands to create a prosperous future.

Electrician

• Duration: One year Foundation Certificate + 3 Apprentice years (roughly two months of study each year) then - Red Seal Certification
• Industry and Demand: Construction, Industrial/Manufacturing, Resources and Energy
• Salary: Median $30 per hour (up to $40 - $50 per hour)
• Schools: Centennial College (Ontario), MITT (Manitoba), Algonquin College (Ontario), NBCC (New Brunswick)
• Tuition can range between $10,000 and $18,000 CAD

Welder

• Duration: One year Foundation Certificate + 3 Apprentice years (roughly two months of study each year) then - Red Seal Certification
• Industry and Demand: Construction, Marine, Manufacturing (Industrial), Resources/Energy, Repairs (e.g., mechanics)
• Salary: Median $26 per hour (up to $35 - $40 per hour)
• Schools: Saskatchewan Polytechnic (Saskatchewan), SAIT (Alberta), Niagara College (Ontario) Algonquin College (Ontario)
• Tuition can range between $10,000 and $18,000 CAD

Heavy Duty Mechanic

• Duration: One year Foundation Certificate + 3 Apprentice years (roughly two months of study each year) then - Red Seal Certification
• Industry and Demand: Farming Equipment, Trucking/Public Transport, Construction Equipment, Resource Extraction Equipment
• Salary: Median $34.45 per hour (up to $40 - $50 per hour)
• Schools: Selkirk College (BC), Thompson Rivers University (BC), BCIT (BC) Coast Montain College (BC)
• Tuition can range between $10,000 and $18,000 CAD

The cool thing about these trades is that you can work in the Natural Resource extraction industry as well, which is big in Canada and you can make more money working in that sector than in others. 

Civil Engineer

• Duration: 2-year Diploma to become a Technologist or 4 years Bachelor's degree
• Industry and Demand: Construction (Surveying/Planning), Commercial and Residential Infrastructure (e.g., roads, bridges)
• Salary: Median $43 per hour (up to $50 - $70 per hour)
• Schools: College of New Caledonia (BC) Camosun College (BC)

Mechanical Engineer

• Duration: 2-year Diploma to become a Technologist or 4 years Bachelor's degree
• Industry and Demand: Industrial, Transportation, Manufacturing, Power Generation, Automotive
• Salary: Median $41 per hour (up to $50 - $70 per hour)
• Schools: SAIT (Alberta), Keyano College (Alberta), Saskatchewan Polytechnic (Saskatchewan), Sault College (Ontario)

There are currently shortages in many trades in Canada, and as there is a housing crisis, there will be more demand for these trades helping to build more residential homes and necessary infrastructure. Also for that reason many provinces have accelerated immigration pathways if you work in trades or engineering.