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Exploring the skilled trades starts with thinking about your interests, strengths, and future goals. An apprenticeship is a great postsecondary pathway that combines hands-on, paid work experience with classroom learning, allowing you to build valuable skills while earning a wage.
The skilled trades offer rewarding and respected career opportunities, with options for continued learning, career growth, and financial stability.
UNDERSTANDING THE APPRENTICESHIP PATHWAY
Apprenticeship is a postsecondary education pathway where individuals learn a skilled trade through a combination of paid on-the-job training and in-school learning. Apprentices work alongside experienced journey persons, gaining practical skills while earning an income. Throughout their apprenticeship, they also participate in technical training
Most apprentices alternate between periods of workplace learning and classroom instruction, often completing approximately one year of work before attending technical training for 812 weeks. Depending on the trade, an apprenticeship typically takes two to five years to complete.
Ontario currently recognizes 144 skilled trades across four sectors:
Construction
Industrial
Motive Power
Service
Skilled Trades Ontario is a great resource for students and families to explore the many skilled trades and apprenticeship opportunities available across Ontario.
You can learn about Ontario’s 144 recognized skilled trades, including the training required, what each trade involves, and possible career pathways. This can help you discover options that match your interests, strengths, and future goals.
Watch interviews with tradespeople who love their jobs. Hear why they chose their career, how they entered into it, and how others can, too.
ONTARIO YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM (OYAP)
The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) gives you the opportunity to explore a career in the skilled trades while you’re still in high school.
Typically available to students in Grades 11 and 12 through Cooperative Education, OYAP allows you to gain hands-on workplace experience, explore a skilled trade, and earn high school credits at the same time.
Participating in OYAP can help students build industry experience, make connections with employers, and make informed decisions about pursuing apprenticeship after graduation.
SUPPORTING YOUR PATH IN THE TRADES
The skilled trades offer many exciting career opportunities after high school. You can explore apprenticeships, training programs, and entry-level employment in trades that match your interests and strengths. Skilled Trades Ontario, apprenticeship programs, and local employers are great places to start learning about requirements, training, and career options. Planning ahead can help you identify the courses, experience, and certifications you may need to get started.
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