APPRENTICESHIP Your Career Starts Now - A Guide to Careers in Skilled Trades
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It’s a Matter of CHOICE. It’s a Matter of MONEY. It’s a Matter of FACT. APPRENTICESHIP Your Career Starts Now A Guide to Careers in Skilled Trades www.careersintrades.ca
“I started my apprenticeship training right out of high school
and have never looked back. Today, I run my own business.”
~ Keri Boyko, electrician, 27
2 4 6 14 18
The bare facts on Follow your On the job – The real scoop on What makes
apprenticeship dreams – Meet Over 200 trades skilled trades you tick?
training Patrick Clark to consider
Post-secondary
EDUCATION THAT MATTERS!
Are you young and still in high school? Maybe you’re finished school and looking for a new
direction? Or, you are already working and looking for a career that suits you better?
If any of this applies to you, an apprenticeship could be what you’ve been looking for.
Thousands of people like you register as apprentices every year. Why? It’s simple. An
apprenticeship is your ticket to a challenging and rewarding career in skilled trades.
RESPECT Skilled trades play an important role in Canada’s knowledge-based economy. Think
about it. They touch almost every aspect of our lives from the homes we live in, to the
cars we drive, to the food we eat.
OPPORTUNITY
With over 200 careers to choose from, there is a skilled trade for everyone.
The demand is high, you get to travel, and you could become your own boss!
GOOD PAY Tradespeople are rewarded with great pay – often better than average!
20 22 23 24 24
5 steps to an A success story Tips on finding FAQs – Got a Useful contacts
apprenticeship – Keri Boyko an employer skilled trades
question?
The BARE FACTS on
Apprenticeship Training
Apprenticeship is a form of post-secondary
education like university or college. But there’s a
big difference. Apprentices not only learn skills in
a classroom, but receive paid on-the-job training
with an employer.
• Depending on the trade, an apprenticeship can take two to
five years to complete.
• Apprentices usually spend 40 to 44 weeks a year on the job
and go to school for six to eight weeks.
• Apprentices must find an employer and may need to pay
tuition fees for in-school training.
• Apprentices earn a salary on the job from their first day.
• Apprentices receive a Certificate of Qualification in a
designated trade.
+200
different careers
to choose from
3
Who can take an
APPRENTICESHIP?
Apprenticeships are open to anyone.
Age doesn’t matter, though many young people
start their training directly after high school.
DID YOU KNOW?
Pre-apprenticeship training is available in some regions. These work
placements allow students who are still in high school to get a running start on their
careers in skilled trades – not to mention earn school credits at the same time!
To kick-start your career, go to www.apprenticetrades.ca
“After taking one year of university, I realized that
I wanted to do something where I could be outside,
work with my hands, and see the direct result of
my work at the end of the day.”
~ Patrick Clark, carpenter apprentice
Work anywhere in CANADA
Depending on their trade, apprentices who have
obtained their certificate can write an inter-provincial
exam to obtain a Red Seal endorsement and practice
their trade across the country.
5
Follow your DREAMS
After graduating from high school with honours, Patrick Clark did what
many teenagers his age end up doing. He went to university. But he
soon realized it wasn’t for him. A year later, he enrolled at the Northern
Alberta Institute of Technology and became a carpenter apprentice. He
hasn’t looked back since.
In many ways, Patrick has come full circle. Patrick found a local residential construction
He got into carpentry when he was growing up company that agreed to take him on as an
and always enjoyed working with wood. He just apprentice. Patrick really enjoys the mentoring
never thought it would become a full-time aspect of his training.
career.
“Although the classroom training is very
Like all apprentices, Patrick must complete important, it is the on-the-job training that I
in-class studies to earn his certification and find most beneficial,” he says. “I learn much
become a journeyperson. For him, this means better by applying the techniques I’ve learned
about eight weeks of classes every year over with the guidance and mentoring of the other
four years. The rest of his training takes place journeypersons I work with. Now I have seen
on-the-job with an employer. each step in making a home from the ground
up - it is very rewarding.”
Patrick says he has a knack for cabinet-
making and is already thinking about running
his own business. But first, he plans to build
his own home. “You have to follow your
dreams,” he adds.
• The “Red Seal” allows qualified tradespersons to practice the trade
in any province or territory in Canada where the trade is designated
without having to write further examinations.
• To date, there are forty-five trades included in the Red Seal Program
on a national basis.
To travel with a trade, go to www.red-seal.ca
On the Job: TRANSPORTATION
• Agricultural Equipment • Automotive Glass Technician • Inboard/Outboard Mechanic
Technician
• Automotive Painter • Motor Vehicle Body Repairer
• Aircraft Maintenance (Metal and Paint)
Engineer • Automotive Service
Technician • Motorcycle Mechanic
• Auto Body Repairer
• Heavy Duty Equipment • Parts Person
• Automotive Electrical Technician
Technician • Recreation Vehicle Service
• Heavy Equipment Operator Technician
AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE
TECHNICIAN
Do you have a knack for fixing things? If you do, then you may want
to consider an exciting career as an automotive service technician.
These talented tradespeople must constantly adapt to changing
technology and repair techniques. It goes without saying that, as an
automotive service technician, you’re always learning something
new. Many technicians specialize in particular areas of repair.
Related occupations include: heavy duty equipment mechanic,
motor vehicle assembler, and truck and transport mechanic.
Traits & Talents
Good physical condition and agility are important because the work often requires considerable
standing, bending, lifting, and reaching. Computers are a big part of the job so you also need
to adapt quickly to advances in technology. Other important skills include good hand-eye
coordination, mechanical aptitude, time management skills, logical thinking and decision
making skills. Automotive service technicians must also have good people skills.
7
For more information on skilled trades careers, go to
www.ellischart.ca www.skillscanada.com www.apprenticetrades.ca
• Small Engine and Equipment
Mechanic
• Transport Refrigeration
Mechanic
• Transport Trailer Technician
• Truck and Transport Mechanic
AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE
ENGINEER
Aircraft maintenance engineers are professionals who ensure the
safety of thousands of people who travel our skies every day. They
are very specialized tradespeople who install, service, and repair
mechanical devices on an aircraft. On a typical day, an aircraft
maintenance engineer can expect to dismantle complex equipment,
examine it and diagnose problems - all while taking advantage of the
latest technological advancements in the field. Performing routine
maintenance, such as cleaning and lubricating adjusting valves and
seals, is also an important part of this highly skilled trade. Many aircraft
maintenance engineers specialize in specific aircraft systems such as
engines, airframes, or hydraulic systems, particularly in large organizations.
Traits & Talents
Aircraft mechanics need good manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, vision and hearing. They
must also be in good physical condition, since heavy lifting and climbing may be required. They
need to interpret and follow written instructions and blueprints and have a keen understanding
of computerized machinery. Excellent communication and analytical skills are also important.
For more information on skilled trades careers, go to
On the Job:
CONSTRUCTION & MAINTENANCE
• Blaster • Communications Electrician • Electrician
• Boilermaker (Construction Craft) (Domestic and Rural)
• Bricklayer • Concrete Finisher • Floorcovering Installer
• Cabinetmaker • Construction Craft Labourer • Gasfitter - First Class
• Carpenter • Construction Electrician • Glazier
• Cladder • Construction Lineman • Heavy Duty Equipment
Technician
BOILERMAKERS
Boilermakers play a very important role in the economy. They
maintain and build boilers that supply steam that drive huge turbines
in electric powerplants and provide heat and power in buildings,
factories, and ships. They also work on tanks, vessels, towers, and
other heavy-duty structures. The range of work is incredibly varied.
Boilermakers work in water treatment facilities, breweries, sawmills,
nuclear and hydro plants, oil and chemical refineries, shipbuilding
docks, and many other industrial and commercial facilities.
Technology and new materials have led to many changes in this field.
Though traditionally dominated by men, this occupation is becoming
more and more popular among women.
Traits & Talents
Boilermakers enjoy working with tools, equipment and machinery. They have good hand-eye
coordination and must be comfortable working in confined areas. They also like working
outdoors and don’t mind heights. Boilermakers are very safety conscious, as the work can be
hazardous. Learning is a major part of the job, as boilermakers must continually upgrade their
skills to make sure they are up to date on the latest equipment and safety issues.www.ellischart.ca www.skillscanada.com www.apprenticetrades.ca 9
• Heavy Equipment Operator • Oil Burner Mechanic • Sawfiler/Fitter
• Hoist Operator • Painter and Decorator • Sheet Metal Worker
• Industrial Electrician • Plasterer • Small Engine and Equipment
• Industrial Instrument • Plumber Mechanic
Mechanic • Powerline Technician • Sprinkler System Installer
• Insulator (Heat and Frost) • Power System Electrician • Steamfitter/Pipefitter
• Ironworker • Power System Operator • Tilesetter
• Locksmith Services • Refrigeration and Air • Water Well Driller
• Metal Fabricator (Fitter) Conditioning Mechanic • Welder
• Mobile Crane Operator • Roofer
POWERLINE TECHNICIAN
Powerline technicians are critical to the delivery of electricity
throughout our communities. People trained in this trade build and
maintain electrical power lines and cables and install related
equipment like conductors, transformers and switchgear. They work
underground and at various elevations, always using a range of
sophisticated equipment such as bucket trucks and radial boom
derricks. The work is often performed outdoors, in all weather
conditions, and can involve a lot of travel. Some work sites are
remote and require travel by helicopter or boat.
Traits & Talents
Powerline technicians like to work outside and many have a sense of adventure. The job requires
people with good mechanical aptitude, the ability to lift heavy objects, and the ability to work at
heights in varying climates. They also need to learn the principles of electricity, power
transmission and distribution systems which are also known as grids. Powerline technicians
must be very safety-conscious and be able to work as part of a crew.On the Job: MANUFACTURING
• Automotive Machinist • Hoist Operator • Industrial Warehouseperson
(Hydraulic Crane)
• Graphic Arts (Bindery) • Lather
• Hoist Operator (Interior Systems Mechanic)
• Graphic Arts (Pre-Press) (Mobile Crane - Tons)
• Machinist
• Graphic Arts (Press) • Industrial Electrician
• Metal Fabricator (Fitter)
• Heavy Equipment Operator • Industrial Instrument
Mechanic • Mould Maker
• Hoist Operator- Construction
• Industrial Mechanic • Pork Production Technician
• Hoist Operator Services
(Conventional Crane) (Millwright)
TOOL AND DIE MAKER
Any idea what tool and die makers do? You may be surprised to learn
that they are among the most highly skilled workers in the economy.
They produce tools, dies, and special moulds for the machines that
make many of the products and equipment we use every day — like
clothes, airplanes, furniture, and even candy. You name it! Tool and
die makers work in mould shops, shipyards, rail yards, refineries,
pulp and paper mills, mines, smelters and overhaul shops. They work
from drawings, computer-aided designs, and must have a good
grasp of the properties of metal, plastic, rubber and composite
materials. Many make a very good living.
Traits & Talents
Tool and die makers must be excellent problem-solvers. They must also be good with computers
and quickly adapt to technological advances in robotics and lasers. Most tool and die makers
have a background in mathematics and physics. The work can be physically demanding at
times but very rewarding. Tool and die maker must have a solid background in computers.11
For more information on skilled trades careers, go to
www.ellischart.ca www.skillscanada.com www.apprenticetrades.ca
• Power System Electrician
• Power System Operator
• Sawfiler/Fitter
• Sawfiler/Fitter (Benchperson)
• Stationary Engineer
• Tool and Die Maker
• Welder
MACHINIST
A machinist is to metal what a carpenter is to wood. They set up and
run machines that cut or grind metal and other materials into
products with very precise dimensions. Their expertise is usually
called upon to make a single part, such as the robotic arm that
installs windshields on a car assembly line. Their work is forever
evolving due to the rapid pace of technological changes. You’ll often
find machinists in industries that manufacture machinery
equipment, motor vehicle parts or aerospace parts.
Traits & Talents
Machinists like working with tools and equipment. They are patient, have excellent hand-eye
coordination and manual dexterity. They must also have a background in mathematics and be
knowledgeable about the properties of metal, plastic, rubber and composite materials. They
must also be very safety conscious and be in good physical condition.On the Job: SERVICE
• Appliance Service Technician • Cook • Graphic Arts (Pre-Press)
• Arboriculturist • Electric Motor System • Graphic Arts (Press)
Technician
• Automotive Machinist • Hairstylist
• Elevator Constructor and
• Baker Mechanic • Horticulturist
(Landscaper-Greenskeeper)
• Barber • Food and Beverage Server
• Industrial Warehouseperson
• Community Antenna • Graphic Arts (Bindery)
Television Technician • Jeweler and Goldsmith
COOK
At its simplist, cooks measure, mix and cook ingredients according
to recipes. At its grandest, they prepare elaborate feasts fit for
royalty and world leaders. The person in charge of the kitchen is the
chef who plans a menu, hires staff, and manages a budget. He or she
is backed up by a small army of assistants, including executive
chefs, sous chefs, expediters, station chefs, and line cooks. And let’s
not forget the pastry chef in charge of desserts! They work in hotels,
restaurants, hospitals, schools, and on planes, trains, and ships...
just about any place you can imagine!
Traits & Talents
Cooking can be a lot of fun, but you have to be comfortable working in high pressure situations.
Cooks must be highly organized. And because presentation is almost as important as how you
mix the ingredients, most are creative and very artistic. A keen sense of taste and smell are also
necessary, as is being a team player.13
For more information on skilled trades careers, go to
www.ellischart.ca www.skillscanada.com www.apprenticetrades.ca
• Locksmith Services
• Meat Cutter Services
• Powerline Technician
• Stationary Engineer
• Upholsterer
ARBORICULTURIST
If you love nature and being outside, arboriculture may be the
career for you. Often called tree surgeons, arboriculturists survey
and assess landscapes, and perform cultural, biological, and
chemical pest control. Their work improves our environment and
adds life and beauty to our communities and neighborhoods.
Arboriculturists are often called upon to protect trees on
construction sites and appraise the value of damaged or destroyed
trees. They inspect trees and shrubs to diagnose problems and
diseases, and apply various treatment solutions. Their skills are
in high demand because of the increased awareness of the
environment. There are many career opportunities
available for arboriculturists!
Traits & Talents
Arboriculturists generally love the outdoors and have a natural curiosity about their
surroundings. They also don’t mind heights and have a good sense of balance. Some of the work
requires climbing trees with and without spurs. Arboriculturists normally take classes in
forestry, plant science, pest management, and natural resources.The REAL SCOOP on Skilled Trades
Negative perceptions and attitudes about skilled trades have been
around for years. They have bred many myths that discourage youth
from making trades their first career option. But don’t be fooled any
longer. Here’s the real scoop on what’s fact and what’s fiction.
You may be surprised!
MYTH: Skilled trades are not for students that
1 get good grades
REALITY! This is simply not true and is probably the most common
misperception about skilled trades. The reality is that skilled trades
require individuals with a strong academic foundation in reading and
writing, math, and sciences.
Like university, successfully completing an apprenticeship takes intelligence, dedication,
focus, and hard work. Tradespeople are regularly called upon to perform a range of complex
tasks, such as:
• Following complicated blueprints for building an office tower;
• Analyzing various elements (such as weather conditions, weight and distance)
while operating a crane situated on a 10-story building; or,
• Identifying the potential volume of water and its resulting pressure when installing
a sewage system for a hospital.15
MYTH: University is the only path to
2 a good career
REALITY! Achieving a Certificate of Qualification for a skilled trade is
also a ticket to a good future, given the high demand, good pay, and
travel opportunities involved. There are also many chances for advance-
ment within a trade from supervisory positions, to management
positions, to the possibility of owning your own business.
The facts speak for themselves:
• In the manufacturing sector alone, 400,000 workers will be required in the next 15 years
due to retirement 1.
• By 2007, more than one-third of jobs created in Canada will require trade certification or
a college diploma 2.
• Some business leaders are predicting that by 2010, the demand for plumbers will be as
high as the demand for people with IT skills was in the 1990’s 3.
• Statistics Canada reports that tradespeople generally earn a salary approximately 3.1%
above the national average of all Canadian careers combined 4!
1. Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters [Hon. Perrin Beatty], Ensuring the Future of Canadian Manufacturing, February 2005.
2. Job Futures 2000, http://www.jobfutures.ca
3. Stuart Johnson – vice-president of policy and government relations for the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Media Release, April 13, 2004.
4. Statistics Canada, Education indicators in Canada: Report of the Pan-Canadian Education Indicators Program 2003. Data from the 2001 Census16
MYTH: Skilled trades are dirty, noisy and
3 physically demanding
REALITY! There is no doubt that many trades involve “hands-on” work.
But this is why many people work in trades in the first place! For many,
this type of work is far more rewarding than a job that requires a lot of
desk work.
That said, technology has greatly changed the face of many trades. Today, an
increasing amount of mechanical equipment is operated with the aid of computer
software. Therefore, more and more trade workers work indoors, using sophisticated
computer equipment and technology. For example, it’s not uncommon these days for
an auto service technician to turn on a computer before sticking his or her head under
the hood of a car!17
4 MYTH: Jobs in the trades are dead-end jobs
REALITY! Skilled trades offer not just jobs, but careers! There are many
chances for advancement within a trade from supervisory positions, to
management positions, to the possibility of owning your own business.
The level of advancement is up to the capability and desire of the
tradesperson.
“With good wages, challenging activities and stimulating workplace
environments, trades jobs are able to provide youth with fulfilling and
satisfying careers.”
Valerie Overend, Journeyperson Carpenter, Women in Trades and Technologies (WITT) Facilitator
Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology
MYTH: Women do not have the physical strength
5 to perform skilled trades
REALITY! Physical work does not solely imply strength. In fact, skilled
trades require dexterity, stamina, good hand-eye coordination and
balance – all attributes that women equally possess along with men.18
What makes you
TICK?
Do you have a knack for building or repairing things?
Do you have an eye for detail?
Do you enjoy solving mathematical problems?
Do you enjoy using technology to work smarter?
Do you look forward to new challenges everyday?
Do you have a good imagination and a creative flare?
Do you want to earn a great salary?
Do you like to be physically active and constantly on the move?
Do you like to see the fruits of your labour?
Do you want to earn while you learn?
Do you enjoy working as part of a team and accomplishing great things?
If you answered YES to any of these questions,
then you should look into taking an apprenticeship.
What are you waiting for?Still having trouble picking
the right trade?
• Make a list of what you’re good at. • Consider a wide range of trades and
compare each with your three lists.
• Figure out what naturally appeals to
you. Look at your strengths, skills and • Narrow down your choices to five trades
abilities. or less.
• Make three lists: What am I good at? • Observe a trade or take an exploratory
What makes me happy? What do I not trades workshop.
want to do?
• Talk to people working in trades.
“Choose a job you love, and you will never
have to work a day in your life.”~Confucius5 STEPS
To An Apprenticeship
STEP 1 STEP 2
FINISH HIGH SCHOOL FIND A TRADE THAT
SUITS YOU
Complete your secondary There are over 200 skilled
school education. Like trades in Canada, but which
university or college, the one is right for you? Assessing
entrance requirements for your interests, skills, aptitude
most trades include Grade 12. and the kind of lifestyle you
A pre-apprenticeship is also want is never an easy process.
an option while you are in You should talk to your career /
high school. guidance counsellor at school
and your parents, as well as
consult your local
apprenticeship office.
FAST
FACT 1Million
workers will be required by 2020 due to an
aging population and declining birth rates.21
“Apprentices not only benefit from the ‘earn while they learn’ dynamic
of the apprenticeship training process, they also become confident of
the security and accomplishment that mastering a trade provides.”
Ken Georgetti, President, Canadian Labour Congress
STEP 3 STEP 4 STEP 5
FIND AN EMPLOYER REGISTER START YOUR CAREER
TO HIRE YOU
Once you have picked a trade, Once you have found an After completing the program
you must find an employer to employer to hire you, you’ll requirements and passing the
hire you. Approach this task need to register as an required exam(s) for your
like any other job search, apprentice. Follow the steps chosen trade, you’ll receive a
bearing in mind that up to established by the Certificate of Qualification.
80% of all job openings are apprenticeship authority in Congratulations!
never advertised. your province or territory and
sign the required contract
with your employer. The
contract outlines: .
• The length of the training
program
• The skills that must be
learned
• The wages
To learn more about becoming an apprentice, go to www.apprenticestrades.caMost electricians are men...
Just don’t tell Keri Boyko that.
Age: 27
Home: Moose Jaw, Sask.
Occupation: Electrician
Year completed apprenticeship: 2001
Job: Co-owner of Regal Electric since 2003
Salary: Over $45,000 a year.
Favourite part of the job: “Each day I do something new,” says Keri. “I have the opportunity to build
something that people are able to use. It is very gratifying to be able to see the results of my work.”
How she got her start: Keri credits her high school teacher Mr. Donavon Elliott for inspiring her to
pursue a career as an electrician: “He was a very motivating teacher; he encouraged me to achieve my
goals,” she says.
The future: Keri plans to expand her business. She wants to hire more staff and get more into fibre
optics and premise wiring.
Professional associations: Keri sits on the Saskatchewan Electrical Trade Advisory Board and the
Saskatchewan Electrical Contractors Association Board. She is also a proud member of Saskatchewan
Women in Trades and Technology.
“The workplace has become much more encouraging for
women looking to enter the electrician trade.” – Keri Boyko23
Tips for
FINDING AN EMPLOYER
Network! Network! Network!
• Discover the “hidden” job market by going around to businesses that are in the
trade you are interested in.
• Ask your career counsellors for advice. Consult your local apprenticeship authority,
joint labour/management training boards, and trade associations to see if they
know any employers who are looking for an apprentice.
• Tell everyone you know and everyone you meet that you are looking for a job.
• Carry a résumé with you everywhere. Leave it with every employer you speak to –
even if they are not hiring.
• Get the names and phone numbers of the employers or supervisors you’ve reached
out to. Follow-up with them after a couple weeks. That tells them you really want
the job!
Scan the Job Wanted ads
You can also find an employer the old fashion way by pounding the pavement and
scanning the classifieds in newspapers or the internet. Some of today’s most popular
on-line job boards include:
• monster.ca
• workopolis.com
• working.canada.com
80% of all job openings are
never advertised!
FAST
FACTFAQs
Q: How much does it cost to complete an Q: Does an apprentice get paid during their
apprenticeship? classroom training?
A: Apprenticeships cost very little compared to A: As an apprentice, you may qualify for
most post-secondary training options. Employment Insurance (EI). That’s one of the
Generally, tuition costs for in-school technical many benefits of apprenticeship training versus
training are $200-$800/session depending on other forms of post-secondary education. Some
the trade and the province/territory. Other costs employers even “top up” the EI benefits to
that may be incurred are for books, equipment, reduce wage loss for apprentices attending
tools and living expenses. school.
Q: Is apprenticeship always part of the Q: Do apprentices take on a lot of debt?
skilled trades training or can you become A: Debt loads are usually quite low since, as an
certified only from taking a college apprentice, you “earn while you learn.” Many
program? apprentices complete their training with no
A: In general, all trades certifications involve an debt.
apprenticeship.
Q: Who regulates apprenticeships?
Q: How many apprentices are there in A: Apprenticeship programs are regulated by
Canada? provincial and territorial governments. Much
A: There were 248,615 registered apprentices in like the driver license registration system in
Canada in 2003. Canada, each province/territory has its own
government apprenticeship office that assists
apprentices in obtaining their trade
Q: What’s in it for employers?
certification.
A: Employers use apprenticeships to address their
short-term and long-term recruitment needs.
They are an investment in their business’s
future. Many employers encourage their
apprentices to stay on with their company
after they complete their training.
Websites
www.careersintrades.ca Information on skilled trades and apprenticeship
www.apprenticetrades.ca Information on apprenticeship within each province and territory
www.skillscanada.com Information about skilled trades and national skills competitions
www.red-seal.ca Information about Red Seal trades that allow tradespeople to work anywhere in Canada
www.ellischart.ca Information about training requirements for trades within each province and territory
www.jobfutures.ca Information about careers that are in demand, their average salaries and work environment
www.hrsdc.gc.ca Information about Government of Canada programs for skills development
www.councils.org Information about various industry sectors and skilled trades opportunitiesFor more information, go to: WWW.CAREERSINTRADES.CA
WWW.CAREERSINTRADES.CA This project is funded by the Government of Canada’s Sector Council Program
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