Herzing Skilled Trades

Plumber instructor, Steve Dramnitzke at the Herzing College Cambridge Campus

Steve Dramnitzke is one of the most respected instructors at Herzing Trades (formerly known as the PAT Institute).

His extensive experience as a plumber, and proven abilities as a teacher, give students in his plumber program that extra “edge” after graduation.

We interviewed Steve to learn more about his background, and get an inside look at how he runs his classroom.

Updated January 2024

It doesn't take long to become a gas technician. Training is relatively quick, no apprenticeship is required, and there's room for growth—if you're willing to earn higher levels of certification.

But is this the right trade for you?

In this post, we break down eight important things to know if you're thinking about becoming a gas technician (gas fitter).

We cover the job outlook in Ontario, how to get licensed, the different levels of gas technician, how much money you'll make, the skills needed to succeed in this field, and more.

By the end of this post, you'll have a much better idea of what the trade is all about—and exactly how to get started.

Updated January 2024

Been thinking you should get your gas fitter licence, but dragging your feet on starting training? This post is for you.

First, a bit of background: To legally work as a gas fitter in Ontario, you need a gas technician certification from the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA). You can start with a G3 level certificate—but a G3 only allows you to work on gas-fired equipment under supervision. To work unsupervised, you need a G2 gas certification.

In this post, we're breaking down all the ways a G3 or G2 licence can seriously improve your job options in the trades. We also include information on how training and certification works, so you'll have everything you need to take the next step.

So let's get started. Here are five very good reasons to get your gas fitter licence...and a little inspiration to get off your couch and into a classroom!

Updated December 2023

If you look at skilled trade forums and discussion groups online, you'll often see debate over HVAC and electrician—and which career path is better. It's not that one trade is actually superior to the other. It's more that they're both very popular...so students often have a hard time deciding which path to pursue.

In this post, we're breaking down the benefits of both trades. To help you make a smart decision, we'll look at training, key skills, job outlook, and typical pros and cons of HVAC and electrician work.

In the end, it will come down to which field you're more passionate about. But we're hoping this information helps clarify a few things. Let's get started.

Updated December 2023

We love busting myths about the skilled trades—and plumbing myths are some of the worst out there!

If you're even considering becoming a plumber, getting accurate information on training, careers, and the field in general is crucial. You need this info to make an informed decision about your future.

Updated December 2023

Plumbers are respected, well-paid tradespeople. Everyone knows we rely heavily on skilled plumbers for basic survival needs (clean drinking water), and a wide range of daily conveniences (dishwashers, washing machines, toilets, showers, etc.)

This is one of the most popular trade careers out there. Thinking about becoming a plumber, and wondering what's involved in training, certification, and launching your career?

Here are your first five steps to get the ball rolling.

Updated December 2022

This is an excellent time to become an HVAC mechanic in Ontario. The latest career outlook report from the Government of Canada Job Bank shows strong demand for HVAC mechanics and technicians across the province. Several regions, including the Hamilton-Niagara Peninsula and the Stratford-Bruce Peninsula, get a full five-star rating for outlook and growth.

So, if you're considering becoming an HVAC mechanic, and want to jump in while the trade is hot, what steps should you take?

Updated December 2023

So you've earned your G3 and are ready to go after your G2 certification. There are many good reasons to level up and challenge the TSSA G2 exam.

You'll need this Certificate of Qualification to build your career in plumbing, HVAC, appliance repair—or to find employment as a gas fitter in Ontario.

So what can you expect to learn in a Gas 2 training program? What should you look for in a quality program and keep in mind about the exam? Here's what you need to know.

Photo: Electrician students at Herzing College in Toronto (2019)

Updated December 2022

Exactly what kinds of work or areas of specialty can you pursue after electrician training? Is there more to this trade than routine wiring installation and repairs?

Absolutely. After you've completed electrician training, there's a wide range of career paths open to you. It all depends on your individual strengths, preferences, and career goals.

What kind of environment do you want to work in? Are you fixed on avoiding outdoor work? Are you especially interested in electronics, computers, renewable energy, or telecommunications?

In this post, we're comparing electrician career paths to help you see what's out there.

Certain paths require additional training. Others are directly related to the skills you'll learn in a typical construction and maintenance electrician program.

Here's a look at some of your top options, plus some helpful information on training.

Plumber students in class at Herzing College Toronto (2019)

Updated January 2023

So, you're thinking of becoming a plumber. What's drawing you to this trade? Maybe it's the fact that we rely so completely on water services that good plumbers are always in demand.

Or maybe you're particularly interested in the world of plumbing fixtures, water system design, and all the new technology coming up in this field.

Whatever your motivation, your first step is to consider the steps involved in plumber training, and the skills you'll need to build a successful career.

And that's exactly what we're covering in this post. This is our master list of essential plumbing skills.

Get a preview of what you'll learn in training and the 10 key competencies every plumber needs to succeed.