What are the Skilled Trades?
Skilled trades refer to “the type of occupation that includes complex activities and requires skills and account knowledge of the subject” (Statistics Canada, 2008). Skilled Trades people are essential to the economy; they build our homes and schools, support our manufactuing industry, and bring power to our businesses. In Ontario, there are over 140 apprenticeable trades, which are divided into four sectors:
- Construction - electricians, carpenters, plumbers, pipefitters, welders, heavy equipment operators, painters, etc.
- Transportation - automotive service technicians, aviation technicians, automotive painters, fuel/electrical systems technicians, etc.
- Industrial- tool & die makers, industrial millwrights mechanics, precision metal fabricators, etc.
- Service - horticulturalists, hair dressers, chefs, florists, etc.
What is Pre-Apprenticeship?
Employers want to know that whomever they hire has a demonstrated aptitude for the job they are being hired for; pre-apprenticeship is training that provides people with the basic skills in the field that they want to gain apprenticeship or work in. Pre-apprenticeship training programs are offered through not-for-profit, private and college institutions helps potential entrants to the apprenticeship system develop their job skills and trade readiness so that they will be prepared to find work as apprentices.
What is Apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship is a workplace-based training program for people who want to work in a skilled trade. About 90 percent of apprenticeship training occurs in the workplace under the supervision of skilled tradespeople; the remainder involves classroom instruction, usually at a post-secondary institution or other approved training organization. Apprentices are paid employees, so they can earn while they learn
Why choose a career in the trades?
The trades are still in high demand – More than 50% of skilled trades workers are preparing for retirement within the next 15 years. Not nearly enough people are entering the trades. Ontario, like the rest of Canada, is facing a severe shortage of workers in the skilled trades. If you’re considering the skilled trades as a career option, this shortage represents a great opportunity.
