What are the Skilled Trades?
When people think of skilled trades, there are a few that immediately spring to mind. The reality is that there are more than 300 designated trades in Canada! Generally, these trades fall within four main categories:
Construction
which includes trades such as electricians, carpenters, plumbers, pipefitters, welders, heavy equipment operators and painters, among others
Transportation
includes trades such as automotive service technicians and painters, heavy duty equipment technicians, motorcycle mechanics, and more
Manufacturing
including trades such as tool & die makers, industrial mechanics (millwrights), precision metal fabricators, among others
In 2015, 76% of apprentices who successfully completed their program were working in one of 56 Red Seal trades. This interprovincial program allows for the mobility of skilled workers across Canada. Red Seal endorsed (RSE) tradespeople can practice anywhere in Canada where their trade is designated without having to write further examinations.
Not all trades performed in all provinces/territories
Industry needs differ across Canada and, as a result, not all trades are practiced in every province and territory. Each province and territory regulates apprenticeship within its borders, ensuring systems respond to the unique industrial, economic and geographic realities of their region. Apprentices in designated trades must be registered with the provincial/territorial regulatory body and are subject to standards and training requirements set out by governing legislation.
Check out the list of apprentice-able trades in your region!