This ground-breaking program will offer hands-on skills-based training, equipping people to work in warehouse environments.

The first cohort is looking to launch in January 2026 in Calgary. 

The Goodwill Warehouse Academy is a six-month, hands-on employment training program designed for ages 18–30 in Calgary who face barriers to finding work in warehouses.

Through real-world learning, paid experience, and personalized coaching, participants gain the confidence, skills, and connections needed to launch a career in retail, logistics, or warehouse operations.

This program combines classroom learning, industry certifications, workplace experience, and wraparound supports to ensure that every participant is truly ready for employment and supported every step of the way.

We welcome those who are:

• Are between 18–30 years old.
• Are unemployed or underemployed.
• Face barriers to work (such as disabilities, language or cultural barriers, limited work experience, or other challenges).
• Are motivated to learn and open to building a long-term career in retail or warehouse environments.

The program runs for 24 weeks (6 months) and is divided into 3 stages:
• Training & Skill Building. (weeks 1 - 8)
• Paid Work Experience. (weeks 9 - 16)
• Job Search and Transition. (weeks 17 - 24)

Participants attend daily sessions focused on employability, personal growth, and industry-specific skills. Participants can graduate with up to five recognized credentials that make them job-ready from day one:

• Emergency First Aid & CPR
• WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System)
• Occupational Health & Safety Basics
• Pallet Jack Operation & Safe Lifting
• Point-of-Sale (POS) & Cash Handling
• Forklift Safety (optional based on employer needs)

Each certification is facilitated by qualified instructors and supported by hands-on practice at the Goodwill Calgary Impact Centre, a real working warehouse and retail environment.

We know that employment success depends on more than training, it requires stability, wellbeing, and confidence. That’s why every participant receives personalized wraparound supports from our trained Community Relations & Employment Coordinators (CRECs).

Supports include:
• Transportation: bus passes or fare reimbursement
• Meals: nutritious lunches and snacks during training
• Mental Health Support: counselling referrals and trauma-informed coaching
• Housing Referrals: connections to Calgary agencies for stable accommodation
• Financial Supports: budgeting guidance, ID replacement, AISH coordination
• Accessibility: adaptive schedules, sensory tools, mobility aids
• Newcomer Support: language assistance, credential recognition help
• Clothing & Gear: interview and work attire provided by Goodwill
• Childcare Referrals: help identifying affordable options

Each participant co-creates a Personalized Learning & Employment Plan (PLEP) that identifies barriers, goals, and the supports they need to succeed.

Make your organization the leader in accessibility and inclusion with this free program.