CCQ Workforce Pool: How to Access a Construction Trade

The construction industry in Quebec is regulated by the Commission de la construction du Québec (CCQ).

To work in this industry, it is necessary to obtain a competency certificate.

When a labour shortage occurs, the CCQ opens pools allowing new workers to enter the industry without prior training.

Here's everything you need to know to prepare and join the sector.

What is a labour pool?

A labour pool consists of available workers for a given trade or occupation in a specific region. The CCQ constantly monitors the status of these pools to assess whether new workers need to be admitted.

When a pool reaches an availability rate of less than 5%, it is declared open, allowing for the recruitment of new people.

Steps to join a labour pool

1. Choose a trade or occupation

First and foremost, it is essential to determine the trade or occupation that interests you. Various professions are available in construction, such as carpenter-joiner, mason, glazier, cement finisher, or labourer.

2. Obtain a 150-hour job guarantee

To join a pool, it is necessary to have a 150-hour job guarantee over three months, provided by an employer registered with the CCQ.

Important: It is the employer who must apply to reserve a spot within the pool.

3. Take the health and safety course on construction sites

The 30-hour ASP Construction training is mandatory to work on a construction site. It covers essential safety standards and allows you to obtain the ASP card, which is indispensable for pool registration.

4. Monitor the status of the pools and submit your application

The CCQ updates the status of the pools daily by region and trade. It is essential to monitor their opening to quickly enter the job market.

How to know if a pool is open?

The status of the pools is determined by the percentage of available workers in a given region:

• Open pool (< 5% availability): There is a labour shortage, and employers can reserve a spot.
• Pool at less than 10%: Closed, but may open at any time.
• Pool at 30% or less: Closed, but a special measure allows women to enter the industry if they have a 150-hour job guarantee.

How does an employer reserve a spot in a pool?

When a pool is open, an employer can reserve a spot for a candidate by calling the Info Shortage line (1 877 973-6874). The employer must provide:

• Company information
• Candidate's contact details
• The 150-hour job guarantee

The candidate must meet the following conditions:

• Be at least 16 years old
• Have the right to work in Quebec
• Possess an ASP course certificate
• Have the required educational prerequisites (except for occupations)

Conclusion

The opening of labour pools is a unique opportunity to enter the construction industry without prior training.

By preparing your application in advance and staying informed about the status of the pools, you increase your chances of obtaining a competency certificate and starting a career in a high-demand sector.

Make sure to follow each step and maintain active monitoring to seize your chance as soon as a pool opens.