Sometimes the apprenticeship process can feel daunting, but there are organizations, such as Trades for Tomorrow, that can help you through your apprenticeship pathway.
Below we will explore the process for starting and completing an apprenticeship in Ontario.
Step 1: Do you Qualify?
First, you need to find out if you qualify for an apprenticeship. To qualify for an apprenticeship, you must:
- Be at least 16 years of age
- Have legal permission to work in Canada (i.e., social insurance number)
- Meet the educational requirements of your chosen trade
- Have a sponsor in Ontario
Step 2: Do you have a Sponsor?
To apply for an apprenticeship, you must find a sponsor or employer. A sponsor is someone who provides you with apprenticeship training. Sponsors can be an employer, individual (i.e., contractor), or a group of employers (i.e., Trades for Tomorrow).
Step 3: Apply for an Apprenticeship
You can apply for an apprenticeship through the Skilled Trades Ontario Portal (STOP) or contact Trades for Tomorrow to help with your application.
It would help if you had the following information handy available before beginning your application process:
Personal Information:
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Mailing address
- Email address
Sponsor’s Information:
- Full Legal Name
- Full Mailing Address
- Business Phone Number
Sponsor’s Contact Person’s Information
- First and Last Name
- Phone Number
- Email Address
Work Arrangement Details:
- Start date with sponsor
- Number of work and training hours per week
Step 4: Sign a Training Agreement
When apprenticeships are approved, the ministry will create an agreement of training for yourself and your sponsor to sign. Once the signed agreement is approved, you will be registered for apprenticeship training.
How to Complete an Apprenticeship
You will receive a Certificate of Apprenticeship when you complete your apprenticeship training. For some trades, you must complete a Certificate of Qualifications exam.