Apprenticeship and Industry Training

In Alberta, tradespeople are trained and certified through the province's apprenticeship and industry training system. This world-renowned industry-driven system uses a combination of on-the-job-training, work-experience and technical training to build the highly skilled workforce that is essential to Alberta's continuing prosperity. Visit www.tradesecrets.gov.ab.ca to find out more about Alberta's Apprenticeship and Industry Training System and the great career opportunities it has to offer.

Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training Scholarships
Alberta registered apprentices and trainees in designated occupations can now apply for an Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training Scholarship of $1,000 each. There are approximately 165 awards available. The application deadline is July 31 each year.

Apprenticeship Training
An apprentice is someone who learns a trade, both on-the-job and at school, with a goal of becoming a skilled tradesperson. Apprenticeship starts with choosing a trade and finding an employer willing to hire an apprentice. Over the duration of the program (usually three to four years), apprentices spend approximately 80 per cent of their time with the employer gaining on-the-job training and work experience and the other 20 per cent attending technical training at a college or technical institute. When apprentices complete their apprenticeship, they graduate as certified tradespeople. The Alberta Journeyman Certificate proves that they meet Alberta's high industry standards.

Careers in the Trades
When it comes to career opportunities in the trades, variety is the key word. With more than 50 different trades to choose from, there are many unique and interesting options. Click here to investigate careers in the trades.

Designated Occupations
When someone working in one of Alberta's designated occupations reaches a certain level of skill they have the option to apply for an occupational certificate that proves they meet provincial and industry standards for competency in that occupation. There are currently six designated occupations in Alberta - warehousing, plasterer, gas utility operator, construction craft labourer, steel detailer, oil and gas transportation services (six branches), and well testing services supervisor. Click here to investigate careers in a designated occupation.

Initiatives, Projects and Reviews
To continually meet the different needs, interests and concerns of Albertans, Alberta Advanced Education sometimes undertakes special projects, initiatives and reviews. The department is also involved in a number of important cross-government efforts.

Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP)
Through the Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP) students can start their training while they're still in high school. Regardless of trade or when they started, apprentices are always paid for their work. Their pay increases as training progresses.

Top Instructor Award
Nominate a deserving instructor for the Apprenticeship and Industry Training Board's Top Instructor Award.