A Newcomer Bridging Program to the ICI Construction Industry

Welcoming qualified candidates to apply today!



Not sure if you’re eligible? Check the requirements below.

Program Description

Pathways to ICI is a bridging program focused on attracting new graduates and newcomers who are interested in exploring the career paths of Project Manager and Site Supervisor roles in construction. This program bridges knowledge and competency gaps for new graduates and newcomers, interested in pursuing construction careers and offers an opportunity for (paid) training and a potential work placement as a Project Coordinator.

How does the Pathways to ICI program work?

Phase 1:  Under the Construction Landscape I – a comprehensive overview of the construction industry and project management.
Phase 2:  Under the Construction Landscape II and III – strengthening the critical interpersonal skills required to manage projects in the construction industry successfully.
Phase 3: An opportunity to interview and secure a PAID placement as a Project Manager or Site Supervisor in the construction industry.

Eligibility Requirements

The Ontario General Contractors Association is accepting qualified candidates to apply for the new Pathways to ICI program, with thanks to funding from the Ontario Government.

Program Eligibility


  • New graduates from a College or University interested in opportunities in Project Management or Site Supervisor or newcomers (less than 5 years) to Canada with construction experience;     
  • Eligible to work in Canada (work permit, SIN card, etc.); 
  • Available for training and possible placement between [4-month timeframe i.e. November 2022 – February 2023];
  • A valid Ontario G2/G Driver’s License with an acceptable driving record;
  • Access to a reliable vehicle for rural project sites and;
  • Be a resident of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Application Package Details

We’re thrilled you’re interested in the Pathways to ICI program. Below is the detailed list of items to ready for your application to the program. 

  1. Resume & Cover Letter   
  2. References x2 from the following sources:  
    1. Work reference 
    2. Community/Volunteer reference
  3. Education Transcript  
    1. Provide a copy of your official or unofficial transcript.  Please note that academic performance (i.e. grades) will not impact your application;   
  4. Transcripts from post-secondary institution if recent graduate  
  5. Video Submission (30 seconds to 1-minute in length)  
  6. Question and Answer Form   

We are appreciative of the interest and time given to apply to this program. Unfortunately, we can only guarantee that qualified applicants will be contacted for interview and next steps.

The Ontario General Contractors Association (OGCA) – with funding from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) – has partnered with First Work to build the Pathways to ICI program to attract new talent to the construction industry.

This unique bridging program is designed to fill in the knowledge gaps and accelerate the advancement of new entrants in Ontario’s ICI construction sector onto management track opportunities.

This program is designed specifically for those folks interested in a management-track career in construction, who haven’t yet worked in the Canadian ICI sector. Program participants will be new graduatesand newcomers who are interested in exploring the construction career paths of Project Manager and Site Supervisor roles.

Pathways to ICI is split into 34 components:

  1. Phase 1:  Under the Construction Landscape I  
    1. Learning theme: a comprehensive overview of the construction industry and project management.  
    2. Participants meet in-person for group training
    3. Participants coached through self-directed learning  

  2. Phase 2: Under the Construction Landscape II and III
    1. Learning theme: strengthening the critical interpersonal skills required to manage projects in the construction industry successfully.  
    2. Participants meet in-person for group training  
    3. Participants receive 1v1 interview preparation support  

  3. Phase 3:  An opportunity to interview and secure a PAID placement as a Project Manager or Site Supervisor in the construction industry.

Learning Themes included in Pathways to ICI:

  • Introduction to the construction landscape: 
    • The Contractor’s Role 
    • Life Cycle of a Project 
  • Health and safety, and 
  • Construction-specific soft skills: 
    • Leadership Skills 
    • Communication Skills 
    • Critical Thinking 
    • Negotiation Skills 
    • Difficult Conversations 
    • Mediating Conversations 

Please note this program is free, participants will receive a paid stipend for training, and if offered a placement it will be paid.

Pathways to ICI is made possible thanks to funding from the Ontario Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development with support from the Government of Canada.