Tradework Social Enterprises

Tradeworks is a wood manufacturing social enterprise based in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. They produce a range of handcrafted wood products from laser engraved ornaments to outdoor furniture.

As a social enterprise, Tradeworks is committed to hiring local residents who face barriers to employment. In order to meet these unique hiring objectives, Tradeworks has partnered with Open Door Group.

We support Tradeworks by offering cohort-based training programs where participants develop basic carpentry and manufacturing skills under the mentorship and guidance of a red seal instructor. During the program, participants also work with employment facilitators to develop their resume and cover letter. Towards the end of the program, suitable candidates are put forward to Tradeworks for interviews, and successful candidates are supported by both organizations through the hiring and onboarding process.

Tradeworks currently hires 100% of their crew through Open Door Group’s trades training program. On average, a total of 16 candidates per year.