It’s a very good idea. Now and even after the pandemic, careers in the trades will be in demand.
An Apprenticeship is absolutely the way to go if you have an interest.
What is an Apprenticeship? You take classes and learn a trade of your choice by working under the direction of experienced workers, while also earning a living. The completion of an apprenticeship can lead to job prospects with high earning power.
Interested men and women can pick from over 150 occupations within the categories of construction, service, industrial and motive power – with 55 of them being Red Seal Trades. Receiving a Red Seal means that once you complete your designated hours and pass your exam, you can work anywhere in Canada.
Where can you start? Your local community, newspaper, construction site or new build that might be close to your home – go talk to the site supervisor. Unions that represent your field of interest can also be an excellent place to look, as well as trade associations and trade journals. The official trade bodies that regulate the fields are always in touch with employers in the field. If you are affiliated with a local secondary school or college, check them out for opportunities – some administer apprenticeship sessions, pre-apprenticeship sessions, in-class sessions, including connections with employers.
3 MORE PLACES TO LOOK FOR:
- Websites that specialize in the trades and apprenticeships such as www.apprenticesearch.com, www.ontario.ca and www.skillscanada.com.
- Websites of companies you are interested in.
- Network with friends and family members who are already working in the trades. Individuals who work in the trades often have links to other tradespeople, employers and knowledge about job opportunities.
Job Developers at our 6 employment centres are able to present and explore hiring incentives, funded through the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, to potential employers. These financial incentives help to encourage and support employers in hiring you on as an apprentice.
Achēv offers free weekly events and workshops to help you achieve your employment and career goals. Visit our Events Calendar to see all of our upcoming events.
