Apprenticeships
What is an Apprenticeship?
An Apprenticeship is a combination of on-the-job training, work experience and technical training in a trade.
You can train as an apprentice in one of more than 150 skilled trades in Ontario.
There are several different paths to finding an apprenticeship in Ontario. Most people follow the traditional route of finding an employer who will agree to hire and train you.
You can explore various apprenticeships on My Blueprint. Select the My Blueprint icon once you are signed into UGCLOUD. Click on “Post-Secondary” then “Apprenticeship.” Find information on various apprenticeships and read the Apprenticeship Guide for Ontario Students.
How to Begin an Apprenticeship
1. Traditional Route – The individual looking for an apprenticeship is responsible for finding an employer who will hire and sponsor them for an apprenticeship. Submit an online application and if approved, the employer and the apprentice sign an Apprenticeship Training contract with the MTCU (Ministry of Training, Colleges, Universities) to begin work as an apprentice.
MTCU Apprenticeship Office, Kitchener
4275 King St East Ste 200, Kitchener, N2P 2E9 Phone: 519-653-5758
2. College Route – Many Ontario Colleges offer diploma programs related to skilled trades. These programs require a high school diploma and can take two or three years to complete. A college graduate with a diploma in a skilled trade may be successful in finding an employer willing to register him/her as an apprentice afterwards.
3. Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program – While still in secondary school, young people with the help of an OYAP coordinator, register as apprentices. These students complete a co-operative work placement in a skilled trade at the same time they are receiving credit for the skills they are developing and demonstrating to their employer. A successful OYAP placement can even lead to paid employment and continuation of the apprenticeship after graduation. Interested students should talk to a guidance counsellor or co-op teacher.
Useful Websites
- apprenticesearch.com– free online service connecting employers and apprentices in the skilled trades
- www.ontario.ca/page/start-apprenticeship – Ontario Government publication on how to qualify and apply for an apprenticeship
- ellischart.ca/ – comparative chart of apprenticeship training programs across Canada
- skillsontario.com – promotes skilled trades in Ontario
- earnwhileyoulearn.ca/ – information about apprenticeships in Ontario
- Pathway to Apprenticeships – information for high school students about apprenticeship pathway
- oyap.com – a school to work program that allows for students to explore & work in apprenticeship occupations in grades 11 & 12
Incentive and Supports for Apprenticeships
Please view the following to learn about Incentives and Supports for Apprentices in Ontario.
