We took a visit to George Brown College in Toronto to visit their two year Renovation Apprentice Program. With a combination of shop instruction, small shed building and on site apprenticeships, these young people are moving into renovation with a good working foundation, and direct job connections. Almost all the students have jobs ready before they finish their courses.
Because much of the renovation and new construction work force are approaching retirement age, opportunities are opening up across the country, and more and more schools are developing specific apprentice training for all of the trades needed to keep your houses going.
Check out the programs at George Brown College in Tonroto, Ontario, or simply search for "apprentice" on the internet and you will probably find something in your area.