September 3, 2025
September often feels like a fresh start. Students are heading back to class, workplaces are ramping up after summer, and many people are ready to set new goals. It’s also a great time to think about your own professional path, whether that means finding a new job, upgrading your skills, or exploring a different career altogether.
Downtown Hamilton has a range of resources to help you take that next step. From employment services that connect you with local opportunities to specialized training and education programs that open new doors, the support you need is right here in the BIA.
Employment Services
Drake International
Drake International is a long-standing HR partner for businesses and job seekers alike. They offer permanent, temporary, and specialty recruitment, plus services like workforce analytics, training, safety programs, and employee engagement surveys. Their approach focuses on improving productivity and performance, aiming to deliver measurable results for employers while opening career pathways for candidates.
📍 25 Main St. W., Suite 101, Hamilton
🌐 drakeintl.com
PATH Employment Services
Since 1972, PATH Employment Services has been helping people with all types of disabilities (but not limited to) find and keep meaningful work. As Canada’s first community agency dedicated to this mission, they’ve built a deep well of expertise, offering personalized job placement, one-to-one employment counselling, and skills workshops. Their team includes certified counsellors, job developers, life skills coaches, HR professionals, and accessibility specialists; all committed to breaking down barriers and tailoring programs to individual needs.
📍 12 James St. N., Suite #5R, Hamilton
🌐 pathemployment.com
Synergie Hunt International
Part of a global network spanning 17 countries, Synergie Hunt International brings international reach with local expertise. In Hamilton, they connect candidates to roles in administration, healthcare, skilled trades, and beyond, offering everything from permanent placement and temporary work to executive search and HR consulting. Their services also include professional training and international mobility programs, helping employers and job seekers adapt to today’s workforce demands.
📍 21 King St. W., Hamilton
🌐 synergie.ca
Staff Plus
With over 50 years of staffing experience, Staff Plus matches talent to opportunity in light industrial, office, and professional sectors. They work with businesses of all sizes, providing flexible hiring options and helping candidates find roles that match their skills and goals. From general labour and skilled trades to senior-level positions in finance, IT, and marketing, they’re known for their integrity, personalized service, and long-standing client relationships.
📍 1 Hunter St E, Ground Floor, Hamilton
🌐 staffplus.ca
Specialized Training & Education
Anderson College
Serving the community since 1885, Anderson College delivers career-focused programs in healthcare, business, law, and IT. Their model combines in-class instruction with practicum placements, supported by a dedicated career services team. Anderson emphasizes both skill-building and personal wellbeing, offering resources like a mental wellness support program alongside academic training.
📍 31 King St. E., 2nd Flr, Hamilton
🌐 andersoncollege.com
Access Language Centre
For over 15 years, Access Language Centre has been helping newcomers, students, and professionals improve their English skills through TESL-certified instruction. Classes are tailored to each learner’s needs, combining different teaching methods and materials to build speaking, listening, reading, and writing abilities. Their focus on meaningful, enjoyable lessons helps students progress at their own pace toward their goals.
📍 25 Main Street West, Suite 730, Hamilton
🌐 accesslanguagecentre.ca
Coast2Coast First Aid & Aquatics
A Canadian Red Cross and Heart & Stroke partner, Coast2Coast offers WSIB-approved first aid, CPR, and aquatics training for all ages and skill levels. Their hands-on approach emphasizes muscle memory and confidence, whether you’re taking a workplace safety course, preparing for a healthcare career, or enrolling your child in a babysitting program. Professional responders can also access advanced certifications, including ACLS and PALS.
📍 20 Hughson St S, Suite 608, Hamilton
🌐 c2cfirstaidaquatics.com/hamilton
CLI College
CLI College offers diploma and certificate programs in fields like healthcare, business, technology, and trades, with both in-person and online learning options. Their programs, including PSW, Developmental Service Worker, and Mental Health & Addictions, are designed to meet today’s job market needs. Students benefit from industry-experienced instructors, a supportive community, and hands-on training that builds confidence before graduation.
📍 25 Main St. W., 1215, Hamilton
🌐 clicollege.ca
Hamilton Institute for Health Personnel
Since 1996, Hamilton Institute for Health Personnel has been training Personal Support Workers to excel in both community and facility-based care. As an approved career college, they offer a curriculum that blends high training standards with a deep respect for clients’ dignity and wellbeing. Graduates leave prepared for the realities of the healthcare field, equipped with the skills to provide quality, compassionate care.
📍 25 Main St. W., 915, Hamilton
🌐 hamiltonhealthpersonnel.ca
Southern Ontario Collegiate
Southern Ontario Collegiate is a private, university-preparatory secondary school with a strong record of placing students in top universities worldwide. They specialize in supporting international students with small class sizes, personalized learning plans, and an in-house tutor for extra academic help. SOC’s philosophy, balancing knowledge and wisdom, shapes not just academic skills but also confidence and readiness for life after graduation.
📍 28 Rebecca St., Hamilton
🌐 southernontariocollegiate.ca
triOS College
With over 30 years in career training, triOS College offers diploma programs in business, technology, healthcare, law, and supply chain, all designed in consultation with industry leaders. Their Hamilton campus provides hands-on training, flexible scheduling, and career services to help graduates transition quickly into the workforce. triOS is a multi-award-winning Canadian-owned college recognized for its commitment to student and employer needs.
📍 20 Hughson St S Suite 800, Hamilton
🌐 trios.com
As September unfolds, it’s a reminder that change can be a good thing. Whether you’re returning to the workforce after a break, looking to sharpen your skills, or starting a brand-new career path, Downtown Hamilton’s employment services and training providers are here to help. Take advantage of the season’s momentum, explore the opportunities close to home, and make this fall the start of something new.
If you’re a Downtown Hamilton BIA member business and would like to be featured in a blog post, please email Melanie at melanie@downtownhamilton.org.