Thursday, February 26, 2026

Investing in the Next Generation of Tradespeople

With support from CLAC, Organized Kaos is expanding its programs that connect youth to practical skills and positive mentorship in the skilled trades

Ontario Construction Construction

Some of life’s most important lessons are learned while turning a wrench or swinging a hammer.

Organized Kaos, a local faith-based registered charity serving the Brant County area, helps youth discover those lessons through the skilled trades. The organization operates five after-school shops offering programs in carpentry, automotive repair, masonry, plumbing, HVAC, electrical, welding, and more. Each space provides a safe, supportive environment where youth ages 13 to 17 work alongside skilled tradespeople from local churches, with an extraordinary mentor-to-student ratio of one to two.

In these spaces, the trades become much more than tools. They break down barriers and create opportunities for real conversations, real learning, and real growth.

Through its Mobile Trades Unit, Organized Kaos also delivers hands-on experiences directly into grade 7 and 8 classrooms. This program has introduced thousands of students to the trades for the first time, helping them envision rewarding futures in construction and related industries.

For the past three years, CLAC has proudly sponsored Organized Kaos, supporting its growing reach and community impact.

This spring, the organization is expanding to Cambridge, where it will open a new carpentry shop and is seeking volunteer mentors—skilled tradespeople who want to invest in the next generation.

To learn more about Organized Kaos and how to get involved, visit organizedkaos.org.

Michael Kamminga (jobs coordinator, CLAC Training, Apprenticeship, Jobs – Central), Shawn Stuart (executive director, Organized Kaos), Andrew Regnerus (CLAC Ontario construction coordinator)

Investing in the Next Generation of Tradespeople

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