Credential Recognition Program (CRP)
What is the Credential Recognition Program (CRP)?
The Credential Recognition Program is delivered in partnership through Ottawa Community Loan Fund (OCLF), Lebanese and Arab Social Services Agency (LASSA), World Skills (WS) and Ottawa Community Immigrant Services Organization (OCISO).
Throughout your Credential Recognition journey, you may find yourself working with several/all of these organizations as your needs change – the program is designed to allow you to take advantage of the supports when you need them.
Interested in exploring a career in the Trades?
The Credential Recognition Program (CRP) offers specialized application support for Ontario’s Trades Equivalency Assessment (TEA), the first step toward earning a Certificate of Qualification. Designed for newcomers and immigrants, the CRP provides clear information about TEA requirements for those with trade experience in fields that require a licensing exam in Ontario. This program helps applicants understand the process, enabling them to prepare more confidently for the TEA application.
What We Offer
The CRP’s Skilled Trades Sector Specialist provides individualized career counselling for those looking to enter Ontario’s trades helping clients explore their interests, identify a trade that aligns with their skills, and offering guidance on navigating the apprenticeship process. This personalized approach empowers newcomers and immigrants with insights and support to pursue successful careers in skilled trades.
The Group Mentorship Program for the Skilled Trades is designed to equip participants with practical skills and insights for advancing in their trade careers. Through peer-to-peer learning and guidance from experienced mentors, participants gain access to career-focused support and resources. This program empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their professional pathways while assisting in integrating into and retaining positions within the skilled trades sector.
The CRP provides low-interest financing to assist individuals pursuing careers in skilled trades. This flexible financing helps cover various costs, including training or retraining, essential tools, safety equipment, and licensing fees. Additionally, those enrolled in pre-apprenticeship or apprenticeship programs can access financing to help cover some living expenses, reducing financial barriers and making the transition into skilled trades more accessible.
Your Commitment:
Varies based on your circumstances. See below for support and services. Credential Recognition assists in having your skills, education, and experience assessed against Canadian standards.
Having your credentials assessed will help you to:
- Understand/explore the types of jobs/professions that match your skills, education, and work experience
- Find out if your chosen profession requires licensing in Canada – some professions or Skilled Trades are regulated meaning you must be accredited before you can work in that job
- Find out if you need more training or re-training to build your skills and talents
- Show employers what you are qualified for – be confident that your qualifications match the needs of the Canadian job market
Eligibility Criteria
Here’s a glimpse of what we offer:
Credential Assessment Support
Information and orientation regarding the Canadian credentialing and accreditation processes for those educated outside of Canada.
Career Counselling (World Skills services)
Sector-specific 1:1 counselling
Trades Equivalency Assessment application support
Career Exploration
Job Search Workshops
Résumé and interview coaching
Financing & Personal Financial Management Skills
Financing (subject to terms & conditions) – access up to $30,000 in low-interest financing to assist in paying for credential assessment activities or training for a new career
Financial Empowerment Workshops – learn about managing your money in Canada
Career Mentorship
Clients are matched with a volunteer career mentor working in their field of choice
