Introducing Our New Training Program: Modular Housing Construction Fundamentals (MCHF)
We’re excited to share our newest workforce development initiative: the Modular Housing Construction Fundamentals (Modular Housing Readiness Pilot) program, a hands-on, industry-driven training experience designed to prepare participants for real careers in housing construction while directly contributing to Nova Scotia’s housing supply.
This 18-week program integrates both the structural and finishing phases of home construction into one comprehensive learning journey. Participants move through a blend of classroom instruction and paid, hands-on work experience, building complete, two-bedroom, net-zero-ready modular homes from start to finish.
A Complete, End-to-End Training Experience
Unlike our other Housing Construction programs that focus on only one stage of the build, this program provides a full-scope learning model. Participants develop foundational skills across all major areas of residential construction, including:
Framing and structural systems
Building envelope and insulation
Drywall and interior finishing
Cladding and exterior systems
Cabinetry, trim, and flooring
Basic mechanical concepts
Alongside technical skills, participants also gain essential knowledge in:
Construction math
Blueprint reading
Building science
Site operations and teamwork
Safety and energy efficiency best practices
This approach ensures participants understand not just how to build, but why building systems work the way they do — preparing them for real-world industry expectations.
What You’ll Gain
Practical Skills
Gain hands-on experience across the full home-building process — from framing through to interior and exterior finishing — while working on real homes in a supported learning environment.
Career Readiness
Build confidence, employability skills, and trade-relevant experience to enter the workforce as a skilled labourer, carpenter’s helper, or pre-apprentice. Participants earn paid, insurable hours and receive ongoing job development and coaching support.
Community Impact
Contribute directly to addressing Nova Scotia’s housing needs by helping construct net-zero-ready homes that remain in local communities — strengthening both housing supply and workforce capacity.
Industry-Recognized Outcomes
Graduates of the Modular Housing Construction Fundamentals program leave with:
Full-time paid work experience
Accredited microcredential badges
Pre-apprenticeship hours recognized by the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency
High school cooperative education credits through Regional Centres for Education
Multiple safety certifications
Tools and supplies
Individualized job coaching and career planning
These outcomes support long-term pathways into apprenticeships, skilled trades careers, or further training.
Upcoming Training Offerings
Unlike traditional construction programs that focus on only one stage of the build, this program provides a full-scope learning model. Participants develop foundational skills across all major areas of residential construction, including:
Framing and structural systems
Building envelope and insulation
Drywall and interior finishing
Cladding and exterior systems
Cabinetry, trim, and flooring
Basic mechanical concepts
Alongside technical skills, participants also gain essential knowledge in:
Construction math
Blueprint reading
Building science
Site operations and teamwork
Safety and energy efficiency best practices
This approach ensures participants understand not just how to build, but why building systems work the way they do — preparing them for real-world industry expectations.
What You’ll Gain
Practical Skills
Gain hands-on experience across the full home-building process — from framing through to interior and exterior finishing — while working on real homes in a supported learning environment.
Career Readiness
Build confidence, employability skills, and trade-relevant experience to enter the workforce as a skilled labourer, carpenter’s helper, or pre-apprentice. Participants earn paid, insurable hours and receive ongoing job development and coaching support.
Community Impact
Contribute directly to addressing Nova Scotia’s housing needs by helping construct net-zero-ready homes that remain in local communities — strengthening both housing supply and workforce capacity.
Industry-Recognized Outcomes
Graduates of the Modular Housing Construction Fundamentals program leave with:
Full-time paid work experience
Accredited microcredential badges
Pre-apprenticeship hours recognized by the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency
High school cooperative education credits through Regional Centres for Education
Multiple safety certifications
Tools and supplies
Individualized job coaching and career planning
These outcomes support long-term pathways into apprenticeships, skilled trades careers, or further training.
Earn Your Safety Certificates
Participants in the program also earn essential safety certifications to enhance employability and workplace readiness, including:
First Aid / CPR Certification – Responding to medical emergencies on-site
Scaffolding (End Frame) Training – Safe scaffold assembly and compliance
Ladder Safety and Awareness – Best practices for ladder use
Fall Prevention Certification – Harnesses, fall protection systems, and working at heights
WHMIS – Safe handling of hazardous materials
Occupational Health and Safety for New Workers – Core safety expectations in construction
Graduates leave with the confidence, credentials, and experience needed to launch successful careers in the construction and trades sector.
Upcoming Program Offerings
Lawrencetown Offering
Duration: December 2025 – May 2026 (Currently Running) Location:Lawrencetown, NS
Sydney Offering
Duration: May 2026 – September 2026 (Expressions of Interest open in March) Location:Sydney, NS
A Huge Thank You To Our Partners
This program would not be possible without the incredible support of our partners, who play a vital role in making hands-on, industry-connected training accessible to learners across Nova Scotia.
We extend our sincere thanks to:
Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration – for supporting workforce development and skills training across the province.
Nova Scotia Non-Profit Housing Association – for advancing affordable and community-based housing solutions.
Apprenticeship Nova Scotia – for recognizing participant training and offering pre-apprenticeship credits that support long-term career pathways in the skilled trades.
Home Hardware – for supplying materials and supporting hands-on learning in real build environments.
Cape Breton University – for offering industry-recognized microcredentials that formally validate participant skills and learning outcomes.
Rotary Club of Middleton – for community leadership and program support.
Regional Centres for Education – for enabling high school cooperative education pathways.
Milwaukee Tool – for providing professional-grade tools that prepare participants for real job sites.
Nova Scotia Works – for job development, employment services, and learner support.
Passive Design Solutions – for leadership in net-zero and sustainable construction training.
Together, these partners help ensure our participants receive high-quality training, real work experience, and direct pathways into employment, while strengthening Nova Scotia’s construction workforce and housing future.
Learn More & Express Your Interest
Interested in building your future in construction?
This page offers full details on the program structure, outcomes, and how to apply so you can take the next step toward meaningful skills, real hands-on experience, and career opportunities in the construction trades.
