Started from zero.
Here's what I know.
I grew up overseas and landed on my first Canadian job site in my early 20s knowing nothing about construction. Almost 30 years later I've run crews, built companies — and now I train newcomers, career-changers, youth and working crews with real tools in their hands.
Pick the door that fits.
Training Programs
2-day hands-on cohorts, short courses, hands-on trade sessions and curriculum licensing. How each one works and who it's for.
See the programs → The library62 Courses
Foundations, business, project management, building science, hands-on trades, tiny homes. Every course has its own page.
Browse the courses → High schools & youthSchools & Youth
A talk that opens doors, a hands-on trades day, and a mobile classroom that comes to the school.
For schools → Building Across BordersNewcomers
Turning international construction experience into Canadian credentials, tickets and jobs.
For newcomers → The islandsCaribbean
Off-grid builds and alternative accommodations — tiny homes, cabins, pods — and training local crews to build and run them.
Caribbean → Anywhere in Canada & beyondLive from the Studio
Live remote classes, hybrid hands-on days and custom video series — taught from my studio, no travel on the invoice.
Remote teaching → Events & launchesSpeaking
"Built Different" — my story, the real opportunity in the trades, and how to get in. 45 minutes to 3 hours.
Book a talk → Established companiesField Leader Series
I come to your site, figure out what's really going on with your crew, then build training around it.
For employers →Don't take my word for it.
"I just wanted to register my profound appreciation once again for your incredible training on Modular Housing and particularly on LinkedIn. You are such an amazing instructor with a golden heart."
"Aaron brought a practical and engaging approach to our construction training at ACCES Employment. He did a great job breaking down tools, safety practices, and construction techniques in a way that was accessible to participants with different levels of experience."
"I have found Aaron to be a person of integrity, creativity, and follow-through. He brings the same operational discipline to his community commitments that he brings to his businesses. I recommend him without reservation."
"Aaron Markel kept our Revolution greywater system on track, moving it from prototype to manufacturing-ready with steady project management. I'd recommend him to any organization tackling similar challenges."
"I have known Aaron for many years and his commitment to the community and his ingenious creation of businesses have improved Clarence-Rockland."
Want this for your people?
Tell me who you're training, how many, and where. I'll tell you straight what makes sense: a cohort, a few short courses, a talk, or nothing at all. You'll hear back within one business day.
Within one business day. If it makes sense, we'll set up a call.
Based inRockland, Eastern Ontario. I travel for the right program, and teach live from my studio anywhere.