Building Up

We're an Employment Social Enterprise training resilient Torontonians to build, renovate & retrofit Affordable Housing in the GTA 👷🏾‍♀️🏘️ #BuildingUpTogether

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

Lorena started as a trainee. Today, she leads our labour division and mentors others.

A powerful reminder that second chances matter. Thank you, Lorena, for everything you do 💙💛

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

May was full of meaningful conversations, new partnerships, and opportunities to showcase the impact of workforce development in our communities.

In May the Building Up team had the chance to attend and participate in a variety of industry, community, and employer events.

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

From cutting wood to building benches, sharing meals, and catching up like family, this day reminded us that Building Up goes far beyond the trades. Once you’re alumni, you’re always family. ❤️

Thank you to everyone who came out and made the space feel like home again.

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

We are honoured to be recognized as a Finalist at the 2026 Building Diversity Awards by the @TCBN_TO

This recognition reflects our commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the community driven work that creates stronger opportunities for all.

Thank you!💙
#2026BDA

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

We’ve been mentoring @EnviroCentre in Ottawa as they bring the BU model to life through their new social enterprise EC Build.

They’re training newcomers in retrofit and building science skills to help tackle both the climate crisis and the shortage of skilled trades workers.

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

Sneak peek inside our new training facility 👀🎨

These accent walls reflect partner support building a space for hands-on trades training and real careers.

Each room supports learning, growth, and opportunity.
Grateful to all funders investing in Building Up 💪

Stay tuned!

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

We’re proud to partner with @Fengate Asset Management on the Building Her Up scholarship supporting women in trades.

Meet Akeba Canning, first recipient and BU trainee—her drive and vision shape her future.

Thanks Fengate for opening doors through training and support.

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

At Building up, we know success in the skilled trades is built with more than tools and training,  it’s built with wellness, balance, and community.

From the job site to everyday life, taking care of your mental, physical, and emotional well-being matters.

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

Cohort 70, you did it 👏🏽

Eight weeks of early mornings, new skills, challenges, and growth later, you’ve wrapped up your classroom training and stepped into the next chapter on site where it all starts to feel real 🧰🏗️

We’re proud of how far you’ve come!

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

Our alumni had a 2 day hands-on experience with Local 30

10 participants explored careers in sheet metal, siding & decking, and roofing, learned about union pathways, and built their own metal toolboxes

Thank you to Local 30, Rob, and Derek for the guidance and support.

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

Ever wonder what a heat pump install looks like?🏡 Here’s a quick behind-the-scenes:

#goldfinch #adivisionofbuildingup

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

Cohort 70 got straight to work at our new training facility 🔨

Over two hands-on days, trainees practiced painting, tiling, and finishing work while helping bring the space closer to opening.

Real skills, real progress, real impact 💪

#BuildingUp #TradesTraining #SkilledTrades

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

Rojae’s journey is a great example of what determination and opportunity can lead to. After graduating from BU, He is now working full-time in civil construction with All Flooring Solutions while growing his skills through Heavy Equipment Operator training.

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

MEET SHADE! Lead Hand, Contracting Division at Building Up.

Shade started in the trades as a teen and quickly found her passion working with her hands. Today, she has come full circle as a Lead Hand, supporting and guiding trainees on the same path she once took.
#teambuildingup

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

Growth in action 💪🏗️

Our partnership with Hamilton City Housing is creating real opportunities. Sheldon is mentoring while John is building his skills on site.

This is what partnerships are all about.

#BuildingUp #SkilledTrades #CommunityImpact

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

There’s something powerful about creating with your own two hands. Our Upcoming Wood Workshop is more than just tools and timber.

This event will be RSVP ONLY.

Please contact your ACM to RSVP today!
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
#freewoodworkshop

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

Brantford townhouse attic upgrade ✅ Mold remediation + 2” spray foam + @SOPREMACanada cellulose insulation. Roof access used to avoid interior disruption. Results: lower energy 🔥 better comfort 🌡️ healthier air 💨

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

Alumni Success Story: Romario Duncan 💪 After Building Up, he rebuilt skills, earned safety certs, and gained confidence. Now he’s secured full-time work (40 hrs/week) and started his @Liuna506Train apprenticeship 🛠️ #SkilledTrades #Apprenticeship

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

With Jordan, our Trades Success Coach, trainees built real skills from brake pads to oil changes while growing confidence and connections 🚗🔧

This is what dedication to the trades looks like 👏

#BuildingUp #SkilledTrades #TradesLife

[Building Up @BuildingUpTO]

Style With Purpose ✨
Our first Community Closet (Apr 8) brought together donated clothing to support trainees with work, everyday wear & interview outfits. Huge thanks to donors & staff who made it happen, a true community effort 💛

#CommunityCloset #DEI