The Maintenance Services Training Program (MSTP) is a no-barrier job training program designed specifically for economically vulnerable community members, including those experiencing or at risk of homelessness, and newcomers to Canada. It equips participants with the knowledge, skills, certifications and work experience needed to secure and maintain meaningful employment as building superintendents or in the maintenance/custodial industries.
The program combines academic and practical instruction, mentorship, industry-standard certifications, placement opportunities, professional development (interview training/resume writing) soft-skills development (teamwork, problem-solving, dependability, etc.), and comprehensive support for job retention after graduation. The 15-week program includes modules on general repairs, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, drywall, painting, housekeeping, HVAC, fire safety, janitorial, WHMIS, exterior and interior maintenance, and more. Students complete 3-week work placements to gain on-the-job experience, and in most cases are then hired on by our placement partners. Students also receive an industry-specific tool kit and steel-toed safety boots to help start them off in their new careers.
Our pilot session launched in January 2025. Since then, we’ve successfully run 3 sessions of the program (currently midway through our 4th session), and thus far have achieved a 100% success rate for employment upon graduation (23 graduates to date).
In tandem with our 28 other programs/services, we provide students with wraparound supports, including food, housing support, primary and mental health care, transportation, language supports, financial literacy, and much more.
Ottawa is facing unprecedented times. Nearly 10,000 people are currently experiencing homelessness in Ottawa according to The Financial Accountability Office of Ontario. Approximately 250,000 people (25.7% of the city) are facing food insecurity according to The Ottawa Food Bank’s 2025 Hunger Report.
The Ottawa Mission has been trusted to serve those in need for 120 years. Knowing that employment is a long-term solution to breaking the cycle of poverty and homelessness, countless community members and a number of corporate partners supported us in launching the Maintenance Services Training Program (MSTP) in 2025 to help at-risk residents rebuild their lives. To date, all 23 MSTP graduates have gained meaningful employment, increased their economic stability, and found new hope for their futures.
Research, input from stakeholders, and an overflow of community interest has proven the importance, timeliness, and direct need for this program. This year alone, we received nearly 200 applications to fill our 20 program spots.
“This kind of practical, community-rooted program is a meaningful response to the skills shortages we’re seeing across Construction & Property and we’re sharing it because it deserves attention from across the industry.” - SCOTT HALLAM, Managing Director, Construction & Development, Parker Huggett, a division of LRO Staffing
Impact Story: Gloria, a newcomer from Uganda, first heard about MSTP while struggling to find steady work. With no experience in trades and doubts about entering a male-dominated field, she was hesitant, but her determination carried her forward. “If I have the will, I can do it."
Six months later, the crowd cheered as Gloria stood proudly at her MSTP graduation, equipped with new skills and a community of supportive peers by her side. She gained a full-time position in the field, and looking forward, Gloria dreams of using her skills to train other women to find success and fulfillment in maintenance industry.
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Amazing program with engaged participants – definitely will continue to support this program.
This program builds important skills, confidence, and opportunities for a brighter future. Thank you so much for helping us succeed.
Great program for the community.
The MSTP provides tangible opportunities to vulnerable members of our community. It is empowering!
Our organization is proud to support The Ottawa Mission’s Maintenance Services Training Program!
We had a placement student and it turned out so well we hired them full time.
This is such an amazing program!