About Apprenticeships
Pathways to Apprenticeship
Traditional Apprenticeship Route (Direct)
A person seeking an apprenticeship is responsible for finding an employer who will sponsor him or her. To become an apprentice, you and your employer must register a Contract of Apprenticeship with the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development (MAESD). In addition, all apprentices must register or renew their Ontario College of Trades membership. Approximately one year after registering with MAESD, the Ministry will send you an Offer of Training to attend the basic level of the in-school component of your apprenticeship.
Pre-Apprenticeship Programs
These programs provide training in a specific trade to help prepare for apprenticeship. They are generally fewer than 52 weeks in length. Pre-Apprenticeship Programs offer academic upgrading for candidates that do not possess their Grade 12 or equivalent, which is the academic entry level in most trades. In addition, it offers introductory theoretical and practical training, Level 1 in-school apprenticeship training in a specific trade as well as a work placement component to gain hands-on experience. Organizations offering these programs often assist with job placement. Hours spent in pre-apprenticeship training can be credited towards the overall apprenticeship training if the individual decides to sign on as an apprentice.
Union or Industry Approved Training
Financial Incentives for New Apprentices
The Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development (MAESD) has developed a guide to help you understand financial incentives available to help you build your career as an apprentice. See List of Financial Incentives here. See direct link to the Ministry's website here.
TCBN Unionized Construction Industry Members
Carpenters Union Local 27
Ironworkers Local 721
Labourers International Union of North America Local LiUNA Local 183 Training Centre
Labourers International Union of North America Local LiUNA Local 506
International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 793
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 353
Sheet Metal Workers' & Roofers' Local Union 30
Drywall Acoustic Lathing & Insulation Local 675
Ontario Industrial & Finishing Skills Centre
Hospitality Workers Training Centre
Society of Energy Professionals, IFPTE Local 160
Toronto and York Region Labour Council
Labour Community Services
Labour Education Centre
Filipino Workers Network
Good Jobs for All Coalition