A new era in skills education arrived in Brantford on October 27 as Conestoga College and the Grand Erie District School Board officially opened the province’s first College-Within-a-School program at the Tollgate Technical Skills Centre (TTSC).
The event drew community partners, educators, and supporters to celebrate a milestone that redefines how students transition from high school to post-secondary education.
“The launch of our College-Within-a-School program marks a significant advancement in our commitment to innovation and community partnership in Brantford and Brant County,” said Conestoga President John Tibbits.
“By integrating college-level programming within Tollgate Technical Skills Centre, we are expanding access to practical, hands-on training that directly aligns with local workforce needs. This initiative will help equip students with the skills and credentials required to succeed in high-demand sectors, strengthening Brantford and Brant County’s economic resilience and future prosperity.”
The program is the result of a licensing agreement between Conestoga and Grand Erie, which allows the college to renovate and equip Tollgate with new technology and resources.
The facility will now support a wider range of programs designed to meet the growing demand for skilled trades training in the region.
The initiative builds upon the success of the School-Within-a-College model and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), offering students a smoother path from secondary to post-secondary education while giving them direct exposure to college-level learning environments.
“We’re grateful for the partnership and opportunity to launch a College-Within-a-School program,” said Grand Erie Director of Education JoAnna Roberto.
“This collaboration expands options and pathways for students to learn technological skills and enter the skilled trades while also allowing the college to broaden its programming.”
The first cohort of students began in September, enrolled in Conestoga’s Electrical Techniques program. Future offerings are expected to include Ontario college certificate and diploma programs that respond directly to local industry needs.
For more than a decade, Conestoga has been an active part of the Brantford education landscape, delivering career-focused training that supports both learners and employers.
With the addition of TTSC, the college further cements its role in shaping Brantford’s skilled trades pipeline and contributing to the city’s economic development.
