Apprenticeships

A guide for parents and students

​

What are skilled trades?

There are a wide variety of trades and many are essential.

There are 4 main categories:

1. Construction: residential, infrastructure, industrial
2. Industrial: ex - welders, machinists, metal fabricators
3. Movie Power: engine techs of all kinds and sizes
4. Services: trades that provide a service to society

Click here for a list of Skilled Trades that require an Apprenticeship

1. Job Security
2. Skill Security
3. Opportunities for Advancement
4. Earning Potential
5. Work-Life Balance
6. Physical Fitness
7. Mastering a Skill
8. Social Relationships

How to become an apprentice

1. Meet Eligibility - legally can work in Ontario
2. Research and select a trade - Skilled Trades Ontario is a great place to start.
3. Find an Employer (you must do this on your own)
4. Register the apprenticeship (form signed by you and your employer) to the Ministry of Labour
5. Complete the on-the-job training hours (3000-9000)
6. Complete the in-school training hours
7. Monitor and Report: submit reports to the Ministry Labour
8. Pass the Certification Exam

​

Timeline

​

Many employers are reluctant to take on a high school student as an apprentice. They typically only have 1 apprentice at a time. This should not discourage you from working in the field to prove your commitment.

The employer will be making a multi year commitment when/if they take on you on as an apprentice and often need to see what your potential first.

Grants and Red Seal

• Once you complete the apprenticeship process, you become a journeyperson.
• There are several government grants available to help with purchasing tools/equipment and other incentives for becoming an apprentice.
• Some trades are Red Seal trades which allow a journeyperson to work anywhere in Canada. You can find the list on their website.

Apprenticeship Pathways

1. Direct Route:
1. Uncommon, but happens when you know someone in the trade willing to take you on at a young age.

​

• OYAP: Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program:
• Must be 15 and have earned 14 credits
• Can participate through Co-op in high school
• Earn high school credits while earning hours
• Two categories: a) Student Apprentice - in OYAP but not yet signed a Registered Trade Agreement or b) Registered Apprentice: formally registered with trade agreement

​

Apprenticeship Pathways (Continued)

​

3) SHSM (Specialist High School Major)

• Focus learning in a particular sector
• 8-10 courses
• Earn certification/training
• Often collaborates into the OYAP Program
• Can provide opportunity to make connections that lead to apprenticeship
• Sacred Heart has one for Construction

4) Dual Credit

• High school and college credits at the same time
• Important to note that college is not mandatory for an apprenticeship nor does it guarantee one. But it can provide a chance to mature and make connections

​

Apprenticeship Pathways (Continued)

​

5) Pre-Apprenticeship Program

• Weeks to months
• Job searching skills, resume writing, interview preparation

​

6) Union and Industry Training Centres

• Some advertise that they will provide training and an opportunity that will lead to apprenticeships.

​

Carpenter’s Union in Kanata is an example

How to Connect with Employers

Looking at job posting websites is a good start: Indeed, Apprenticesearch.com

​

Networking Strategies

• Make a list of family and friends with industry connections
• Attend job fairs
• Attend trade fairs (with resume and questions ready)
• Skilled Trades Ontario Level Up!, Skills Ontario Competition, Ontario College Fair, Local OYAP events

How to set up an Information Interview

Candidates can set up an Information Interview to learn about a trade or company and make a connection in the field at the same time:

1. Research a company and the right person in it to contact
2. Reach out professionally (email)
3. Prepare thoughtful questions (bring a notepad and take notes during the interview)
4. Follow-up (thank you letter or email)
5. Leverage the Connections (ask them if they know of any apprenticeship opportunities or contacts)

Tips for an Apprenticeship Interview

1. Research the company (know a lot about them and build this knowledge into your answers)
2. Understand the trade (know the basics, know the expectations and required tasks)
3. Bring Resume and a pad of paper/pen (have questions and record answers)
4. Highlight your work experience but be sure to highlight soft skills as well: examples - teamwork, reliable, can take constructive criticism and apply it
5. Follow-up with a thank you letter or email

If accepted, how to excel in your apprenticeship

1. Strong work ethic and positive attitude
2. Reliability
3. Interpersonal skills
4. Attention to detail
5. Eagerness to Learn and grow

​

Check out the interviews with employers at jobtalksoyap.com

Questions?

Reach out to the Co-op department located next to Student Services or speak to your guidance counselor.

Students are encouraged to book an appointment through my.studentinfo.ca and indicate they wish to talk about apprenticeship and OYAP.