An Industry Working Group (IWG) is a small, task-focused group made up of subject matter experts from a specific trade or occupation. These groups are convened as needed for a limited period to advise Sector Committees and ultimately the Apprenticeship and Certification Board (Board) on program standards, curriculum, exams, and related content.

Each IWG includes 3 to 5 members, with at least one employer and one employee representative.

Members must be:

• Subject matter experts in their trade or occupation.
• Actively engaged in the industry they represent; and
• Nominated by their employer group, employee group, association, union, or relevant organization.

When possible and applicable, the selection of members will consider a broad-based approach:

• Members may be employers, employees or representatives from industry organizations and associations.
• The majority of members of an IWG are to be certified journeypersons in the trade or occupation, where possible.
• IWGs should have diverse representation, including varying geographic locations in Manitoba and the size/type of businesses and organizations. Diverse representation includes varying geographic locations in Manitoba and size/type of businesses, organizations, and associations.

There are restrictions on Industry Working Group (IWG) membership as outlined in the Board By-Laws:

• Individuals involved in delivering or coordinating apprenticeship technical training or accredited pre-employment programs are not eligible.
• Most apprentices are not eligible, however, apprentices in their final Level who have completed their technical training and examinations for all Levels may provide employee representation. These individuals require approval from the Board.
• Those currently serving on a Sector Committee or the Apprenticeship and Certification Board cannot participate in an IWG during their term. However, they may apply once their term concludes.

IWGs exist to:

• Provide advice to the relevant Sector Committees when required to inform their recommendations to the Board about the program standards, training and certification requirements, curriculum, exams, and regulations or by-laws to ensure the standards reflect current industry practices and needs.
• Foster industry stakeholder engagement.
• Perform functions the Board or Sector Committee assigns.

Their work ensures that apprenticeship programs remain relevant, modern, and aligned with real-world industry needs.

Members are expected to:

• Actively participate in meetings and discussions.
• Share their expertise based on current industry practices.
• Consult with their industry peers when needed; and
• Contribute to the development and modernization of apprenticeship training standards.

IWGs are convened on a time-limited basis, as needed. The term and schedule will vary depending on the scope of the work and the needs of the Sector Committee.

IWGs are convened for such tasks as:

• Developing a Red Seal Occupational Standard/Provincial Occupational Standard
• Developing program standards
• Developing technical training
• Developing technical training examinations

IWGs report to Sector Committees, which are responsible for reviewing and recommending updates to training standards and program materials. The Sector Committees, in turn, report to the Apprenticeship and Certification Board and its relevant committees.

Depending on the type of IWG meeting being hosted, Apprenticeship Manitoba will host it in Winnipeg, Manitoba (or virtual), or Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) will host it in Ottawa, Canada. Depending on the type of IWG meeting being hosted, Apprenticeship Manitoba will host it in Winnipeg, Manitoba (or virtual), or Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) will host it in Ottawa, Canada.

Yes, members of Industry Working Groups receive monetary compensation for their participation. The amount may vary depending on the type of working group and the location of meetings.

1. 1. Complete and submit the Industry Working Group Application Form.
2. 2. Ensure you are either:
   1. a. Nominated by an association or organization you represent (e.g., employer association, union, trade organization), OR
   2. b. Include an “Endorsement of Candidate” with the signatures of two industry stakeholders who endorse your appointment.
3. 3. Include relevant information about your professional experience and your role within the industry.

If you have questions about the application process or eligibility, please contact apprenticeshipboard@gov.mb.ca.