Why Apprentice in the Skilled Trades?

In Ontario, there are 23 trades designated as compulsory, which means to work in these fields you must either be registered as an apprentice, or have a Certificate of Qualification in that trade (including Motorcycle Technician, Plumber, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic, and Hairstylist). There are also 121 non-compulsory trades in Ontario, which means while you can apprentice in these fields and 60 of them offer Certificates of Qualification, it is not required (like Construction Craft Worker, Industrial Electrician, Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, and Chef). So why choose to apprentice in a non-compulsory trade?

• Apprenticing provides you with paid on-the-job training, and when you attend the in-class portion of apprenticeship training your tuition is greatly reduced
• You gain hands-on experience doing each of the tasks required for your career, with a mentor to guide you along the way
• The work you do as an apprentice builds your resume and your reputation before you’ve even completed your training

Apprenticing is an excellent opportunity to build the career you want with guidance from certified tradespeople, financial aid from the government, and support from Employment Ontario agencies offering literacy and basic skills upgrading and employment services across the province. We are all #HereForApprentices and are ready to help you succeed! 

To learn more about apprenticeship, including how to decide which trade might be right for you, find a mentor/sponsor, and begin your training, visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/apprenticeship-ontario