Learning a trade is skills-based and hands-on. You can also start working right away, so you earn while you learn. This differs from university where you usually pay up front and only start earning after you’ve completed years of education. As an apprentice, your wage will increase as you progress though the training levels. You can also pursue career paths in management or own your own business. If your trade is Red Seal, it also means that you can practice your trade anywhere in Canada.

Learn more about what jobs are most in demand and assess your interests to the type of work in different trades.

Most trade programs have three or four levels, though some have fewer. The trade profiles provide information on the number of levels that are required for a trade. A minimum of one year is required in each level to complete the required on-the-job training hours and technical training. It is not always possible to complete one level of technical training each year, and some apprentices take longer to complete their levels.

A Certificate of Qualification is similar to a diploma or degree. It is proof that you fulfilled the required on-the-job hours and technical training for your trade, and that you passed your final certification exam with at least 70 per cent. Anyone with a Certificate of Qualification is called a journeyperson.

In Manitoba, a compulsory trade is a skilled trade that requires Red Seal or provincial certification for those who work in the trade. Successful completion of an apprenticeship program is required to become certified in compulsory trades, such as Crane Operator, Construction Electrician, and Steamfitter-Pipefitter. The compulsory requirement helps protect the public by ensuring workers in these trades are qualified and skilled to perform their work safely.

Manitoba offers training and certification in over 50 trades. Divided into sectors, the trade profiles describe each trade's apprenticeship training and certification requirements and trades qualification requirements.

Licensing is trade specific and is issued by other government regulators. Licensing may be required in the compulsory trades and/or relate to hazardous materials or public safety. For instance, a Gasfitter’s licence is granted by the Manitoba Inspection and Technical Services branch. This is the same branch that inspects and grants permits for gas work.

In some cases, proof of your enrollment in the apprenticeship program might be all that is needed to grant a licence. In other cases, apprentices may be required to pass additional exams. For example, Transport Canada requires apprentices in the Aircraft Maintenance Journeyperson program to write the Canadian Aviation Regulations exam to obtain their certification and Aircraft Maintenance Engineer licence.

Your employer or your Apprenticeship Training Coordinator will let you know what the expectations are for your trade and where to apply for your licence.

No, pre-employment programs are optional. Pre-employment and the High School Apprenticeship Program offer ways to gain experience in your chosen trade. Successful completion of these programs may make it easier for you to find an employer because you have received some training. Also, the program may provide you with credit towards a portion of your Level 1 apprenticeship.

Becoming a journeyperson opens many doors of opportunity. For instance, in construction, being a journeyperson is a prerequisite for a contractor licence allowing you to have permits for new construction. This is helpful if you want to start your own business. Additionally, journeypersons mentor future apprentices or can become a trades instructor. Learn more about careers in the trades. Also, the program may provide you with credit towards a portion of your Level 1 apprenticeship.

A diverse workforce strengthens the trades and the economy. Women are traditionally underrepresented in certain areas and are encouraged to explore skilled trades as a career. Connect with resources and services.

Yes, but you must apply for a work permit. If you have a work permit you can register your apprenticeship agreement and become an apprentice. As an apprentice, your hours are being recorded but you cannot attend technical training until you're a permanent resident. Contact Apprenticeship Manitoba if you have more questions.

Not all trades or employers require you to have your own tools. Some companies will provide the necessary tools. Apprenticeship usually takes several years giving you time to invest in the tools of your trade. You may be able to borrow or buy second hand tools when you're starting out. Discuss your needs with your employer. There are also grants, loans and other financial incentives available for apprentices as detailed on our financial incentives fact sheet.

For apprentices in the voluntary trades, some may find job satisfaction after completing only part of their apprenticeship. They may find the wages and job responsibility are what they are looking for and do not feel the need to complete their apprenticeship. However, if it is compulsory certification trade, it means you must be either - a) registered as an apprentice, b) be a certified journeyperson, or c) have an approved exemption to be employed in the trade.

Apprentice: a person who works in a trade under an agreement that is registered with Apprenticeship Manitoba. The apprentice learns the knowledge, skills, tools and materials of their trade through on-the-job training under the supervision of a certified journeyperson. As well, technical training in a classroom setting reinforces and builds upon what is learned on the job.

Apprenticeship Agreement: A document signed by the employer and apprentice outlining the conditions and responsibilities of both parties to the terms of apprenticeship. The agreement is registered with Apprenticeship Manitoba.

Journeyperson: a person who holds a Certificate of Qualification and whose combined work experience and training satisfy all the requirements for those who practice in a designated trade.

On-the-job Hours: A formal record of hours worked by an apprentice and registered by the employer. A minimum number of work hours are required to progress to the next level of apprenticeship.

Technical Training: Technical training, in a classroom, makes up about 20 per cent of an apprenticeship program. The training reinforces what is learned on the job. There is one technical training session per level of your trade and most sessions are between 4-12 weeks long. Technical training takes place at the location of a recognized technical training provider.

Trade Qualifier: A person who can demonstrate scope and time in trade to meet the criteria to attempt the certification exam for their trade. Passing the certification exam allows them to earn their journeyperson status without completing an apprenticeship. The requirements are listed in the trade profile section of the website.