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Bike Training Collective Canada

Skills. Purpose. Opportunity. The Future of the Bike Industry Starts Here

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The Vision of the Bike Collective Training Canada:  

We imagine a thriving cycling industry powered by diverse, skilled talent and supported by strong community and industry collaboration. 
 
Through accessible training, inclusive outreach, and deep partnerships with bike shops, community organizations, and employers, we’re building a national pipeline that empowers people of all backgrounds to find purpose, develop skills, and contribute to sustainable, vibrant cycling communities across Canada:

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Photos of past events:

From hands-on demos to social mixers, our events have brought the bike industry together to connect, celebrate, and collaborate. Take a look at some highlights from these inspiring moments.

    • Upcoming events:

    Register for TO Bike Drinks

    Our Impact

    With generous support from the Peter Gilgan Foundation and the leadership of The Centre for Active Transportation (TCAT) in collaboration with pointA and our dedicated training organizations, we officially launched the Bike Training Collective in June 2024 with some ambitious goals which… We exceeded!

    New Bike Mechanics Trained
    Of Newly Trained Bike Mechanics Were Youth
    Of Newly Trained Bike Mechanics Were Women & Non-Binary Folks
    Of Newly Trained Bike Mechanics Were Racialized Individuals
    Of Newly Trained Bike Mechanics found immediate job placement

    Advocacy

    June 13, 2025

    Proposed New Occupation Code for Bicycle Mechanics in the National Occupational Classification System:

    This submission proposes the creation of a new occupation code for bicycle mechanics. The proposed category details are found in the next section. Currently, the occupation of bicycle mechanic is covered under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system’s NOC 73209 – Other Repairers and Servicers.
    This submission includes an analysis of how the bicycle mechanic occupation is considered in other nations and provides background to the recommendations made in this submission. Click here to view the submission

    A national advocacy campaign has started to encourage the Canadian government to establish an occupation code for bicycle mechanic. A national petition that supporting stakeholders can sign to show they support this change is now live. Please review our media release and share the word! View and sign the petition here:  https://chng.it/nL2mZrZY9z

    This submission and petition will be used in anticipated discussions with the federal government on the need for having bicycle mechanics have its own occupation code.

    Sign the petition

    participants stories and testimonials

    Behind every trainee, there is a personal journey. Throughout Phase II, we heard powerful stories from participants who found confidence, community, and career direction through the program. Through surveys and interviews we’ve captured their voices including their challenges, their growth, and their hopes for the future.

    These stories are the heart of the Bike Training Collective, and they inspire us to keep building pathways to opportunity. 

    From Bike Lover to Bike Mechanic: Helen’s Journey Into the World of Wrenches and Wheels

    We recently spoke to Helen, a recent graduate of a bike mechanic training program who shares her inspiring story—from long-distance bike touring to learning how to fix flats and fine-tune gears. Her journey proves that the world of bike mechanics is more open and welcoming than it might seem at first glance. Read the full story

    • “The class was so inclusive and open to any questions “
      “The “This program was far more than what I could hope or imagine. It was really comprehensive – from beginner material to advanced. The class was so inclusive and open to any questions and input, even mistakes were welcomed as learning opportunities.” 


    • “Using real tools and applying skills in real time helped me quickly build confidence.“
      “What I loved most about the program was how hands-on and engaging it was from start to finish. Working directly on bikes each week made the learning process practical and memorable. Using real tools and applying skills in real time helped me quickly build confidence, especially in areas like brake alignment and drivetrain repairs.” 
    • “one of the most rewarding learning experiences I’ve had “
      “The instructors explained things clearly while pushing us to think critically and work independently. Overall, the thoughtful curriculum and interactive approach made the program one of the most rewarding learning experiences I’ve had. I left each session feeling more capable, empowered, and excited about biking and repairs.”
    • “It felt like a very open and inclusive environment! “
      “It felt like a very open and inclusive environment!
      I also learned a lot and was encouraged to try things on my own but given lots of guidance if I asked” 

    Our training programs are designed to equip you with the skills needed to succeed

    We are proud to collaborate with a diverse group of training organizations located in the GTA. Each partner offers unique programs designed to provide comprehensive training. Below, you will find detailed information about our partners and the exceptional training opportunities they provide.

    CultureLink

    At CultureLink we inspire newcomers and their communities through innovative programming that promotes well-being, elevates skills and contributes to and fosters community connections and belonging.

    Training program Details

    Our bike mechanic training allows participants to learn basic bike mechanics and bike maintenance. through an 8-sessions (24-hour) program. The goal is to provide bike participants with bike maintenance skills, enabling them to perform adjustments, bike repairs, preventative maintenance, and parts replacement.

    Location: 15 Tobermory Dr., North York, ON

    Charlie’s Freewheels

    Charlie’s Freewheels uses bicycles to support the development of empowered young leaders, and self-assured young cyclists. They do this by improving youth access to bicycles, facilitating bicycle-related skill development, and inspiring youth to ride with confidence.

    Training Program Details

    The pre-employment training program aims to provide youth ages 15-30 with the skills, shop experience, and community connection to prepare for an entry-level bike mechanic job in a retail repair shop.

    Location: 242.5 Queen St E, Toronto ON

    The Learning Enrichment Foundation

    LEF’s mission is to provide integrated and holistic community responsive initiatives that enable individuals and families to become valued contributors to their community’s social and economic development.

    training program details

    LEF’s BAM program’s emphasis on practical learning, coupled with expert guidance, prepares graduates to thrive in the dynamic world of bicycle mechanics.

    Location: 116 Industry St., Toronto, ON

    Why Choose a Career in the Bike Mechanic Industry?

    High Demand for Skills: The bike and micro-mobility industry is booming. With the City of Toronto’s commitment to increasing bike ridership through enhanced infrastructure and safety campaigns, there’s never been a better time to get involved. Skilled bike mechanics are essential to support this growth.

    Diverse Career Opportunities: This industry isn’t just about fixing bikes but it is a foundational skill you need to own to enter this exciting industry. This training will help you access an entry level position and from there, you can explore exciting roles in:

    • Fitting and Repairs: Ensure every bike on the road is safe and efficient.
    • Manufacturing and Custom Builds: Craft unique bikes tailored to individual needs.
    • Assembly and Production: Be a part of creating the bikes that power our city.
    • Retail and Sales: Help customers find their perfect ride.
    Join the program
    The Bike Training Collective has skilled graduates ready to join your team! Fill out our Bike Industry Hiring Interest Form to connect with upcoming talent.
    photo by: kasarp Techawongtham

    We need a growing and skilled bike mechanic workforce

    As part of its work towards meeting climate, transportation and economic development goals, the City of Toronto is planning to grow bike ridership significantly across the city. To achieve this, the City is improving protected and connected active transportation networks, implementing education and safety programs, as well as ensuring that growing bike ridership is met with a growing and skilled bike mechanic workforce.

    Real Stories from the Bike Industry

    • “I started my journey test driving an E-bike in 2009. E-bikes were relatively new and after that first ride I was hooked. I wanted to share the feeling of having so much fun and freedom on an e-bike so I started Electric Avenue E-bikes in 2011. I scoured the internet and the E-bike industry did not have a voice or representation nationally and we needed a platform to unite the E-bike industry so I founded the Canadian Electric Bicycle Association. We now have a world class E-bike technician training program and have training technicians around the world, A global solution that was truly made in Canada.”
      Michael Pasquali
      Canadian Electric Bicycle Association – Founder and Ebike technical instructor

    • “I come from a country where women on bikes are unheard of. I broke the stereotype by pursuing my passion for cycling and advocating for active transportation, starting by educating children in schools and aiming to encourage more women and children to ride bikes. When I moved to Canada, I was fortunate to receive multiple free bike mechanics training sessions in the City and then began volunteering at CultureLink. This led to further learning opportunities and launched my formal career in the bike industry. The most rewarding part of my career in the bike industry is combining my love for cycling with impactful work. As an advocate and bike mechanic, I help people enjoy the freedom of riding and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable community.”
      Namrah Khan
      Project Manager, Sustainable Communities

    FAQs

    A group of bike industry allies, advocates, training organizations and other key collaborators with a vision for a thriving cycling industry powered by diverse, skilled talent and supported by strong community and industry collaboration. During phase II of the project (2024-2025) we supported the training of 38 new bike mechanics in the GTA to grow the bike industry in anticipation of the demand from the implementation of the City of Toronto’s TransformTO Net Zero strategy. Our goal is to eventually create a professionalized, standard set of curriculums so that bike mechanics can become a certified trade (or similar).

    All applicants should be interested in pursuing a career as a bike mechanic. If you’re just interested in learning how to fix your personal bike as a hobby, please visit our training organizations for offerings specific to this need.  
     
    You should also be able to attend one of the in-person training courses located within Toronto.  
     
    We are prioritizing those who are any of the following:

    • Ages 15-35;
    • From equity-deserving groups and particularly racialized groups;
    • Women, or those who identify as women

    If you don’t meet the requirements above, but would still like to be considered, we encourage you to still apply. 

    Start by completing our declaration of interest form. This form aims to match you with the training program that meets your needs.

    After you complete the form, you will be connected with the most suitable training organization for review and consideration. 

    Each of the training organizations has different registration protocols and may include screenings such as interviews to confirm your interest in the program and availability.  

    You’ll gain skills in bike assembly, repair, maintenance, and customer service, preparing you for a variety of roles in the bike industry.

    Each training organization provides a unique curriculum. You will have the chance to review each training program’s specific learning outcomes when being matched. 

    Each training course will also include employment skills training so that you can prepare your CV for bike industry opportunities after training.  

    Graduates can pursue careers in bike shops, manufacturing, custom builds, assembly, retail, fitting, and service/repairs. 

    While jobs aren’t guaranteed, this project involves many bike industry employers, and we are well positioned to match as many bike mechanics who successfully complete the program with jobs at bike shops and other employers for the 2025 bike season.

    There is no cost to participate due to the generous support of the Peter Gilgan Foundation. However, all accepted participants agree to attend and dedicate themselves to all training sessions.       

    The program duration varies by organization, but typically includes both part-time and full-time options to fit your schedule.

    All training sessions are in-person.      

    The level of experience required differs for each training organization. We welcome some level of understanding of bike mechanics.  

    Our training programs are designed to accommodate all skill levels but, passion and interest in a career in the bike industry is a must!       

    Bike shop owners can support the initiative by promoting the program, offering employment opportunities, and sharing career success stories. Contact TCAT for more details.    

    Fill out our Bike Industry Hiring Interest Form to connect with upcoming talent.   

    Photo by: Andreas160578

    Bike Training Collective Canada is a partnership between:

    The Bike Training Collective is generously supported by: