With the high cost of living and not being able to afford full-time schooling many individuals are now following the path of apprenticeship.   This allows the person to “earn while you learn” in a skilled trade. Hands on training gives an individual the chance to gain experience in either a trade specific company or one with numerous trades.   

   While working, you accumulate employment hours for both your level with the Apprenticeship Board and Employment Insurance. Typically, 80 percent of your time is spent on the job under a certified mentor and 20 percent is in classroom instruction.

   Annually apprentices are required to attend college to complete the theoretical or technical part of their training.  During college attendance, your employer grants a leave of absence to attend apprenticeship courses.  The worker can apply for Employment Insurance while attending their apprenticeship course, so they still have some income available. Once their course is completed, they return onto their employer’s payroll.  

   As the worker gains employment hours and passes each level of their training, responsibilities and wage increase.  

Programs vary from two to five years depending on the trade complexity.