Apprenticeship is a post-secondary education that combines on-the-job training, work experience, and classroom instruction in a trade.
From day 1, apprentices earn a salary for their time on the job. An apprenticeship education program lasts 1 to 4 years depending on the trade.
Are you interested in becoming an apprentice?
Check out these resources:
- Tradesecrets—This Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training website offers information about education, certification, scholarships, financial assistance and more as well as resources for employers, employees and apprentices.
- Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) for high school students—This program allows high school students to earn credits toward an apprenticeship program and a high school diploma at the same time.
As an apprentice, you accumulate hours on the job and advance through classroom instruction until you have mastered your trade. When you have completed your apprenticeship education requirements, you become an Alberta-certified journeyperson.
In these videos, watch Spencer, Adam, and Kayla pursue their apprenticeships:
Exploring Career Paths: Machining (3:01)
Spencer would like to become a machinist. Watch him explore the registered apprenticeship program (RAP) and discover the skills he'll need to successfully enter the trades.
Apprenticing as an Electric Motor Systems Technician (2:16)
Adam is an apprentice training to be an electric motor systems technician. Learn about his experience with hands-on learning and gaining work experience.
Apprenticing as a Welder (2:26)
Kayla is apprenticing to be a welder. Watch as Kayla discusses starting her apprenticeship while still in high school and obtaining financial support to attend a technical institute.
Moving to and from Alberta as a journeyperson
Are you a journeyperson who wants to move from Alberta to another province or country or from another province or country to Alberta?
If so, you’ll want to know about these programs:
- Red Seal Program—This interprovincial standards program makes it easier for skilled workers to move and work across Canada.
- Apprenticeship and Labour Mobility—This multi-level initiative helps ensure that qualified, skilled Canadian workers can practise their respective trades across Canada.