Job forecasts for the next ten years indicate that 60 percent of all job openings will be in trades and technology. Apprenticeship opens the door to well paying, rewarding careers for those students who wish to enter the work force directly after graduating from high school.

In New Brunswick, apprenticeship is a Post-Secondary Education program that requires the committed participation of three partners: the apprentice, the employer and the government represented by Apprenticeship and Occupational Certification. A successful apprenticeship depends on all partners meeting their individual responsibilities.

An apprenticeship program is comprised of progressive on-the-job training as well as technical (in-school) training that culminates in recognized certification. About 80 percent of an apprentice's training takes place on the job; the remaining 20 percent involves technical training at a post-secondary training establishment.

Successful completion of an apprenticeship program will result in the issuance of documents recognized across Canada.

Earn as you learn

Apprenticeship is the only career route where one can earn a wage while learning a trade. With approximately 50 occupations/trades in New Brunswick to choose from, an apprentice could receive:

• 50 percent to 90 percent of a journeyperson's wages while learning new skills on the job,
• regular pay increases as job skills increase,
• full journeyperson wages upon completion of the apprenticeship program.

Low education costs

An apprentice is required to attend classes, generally held at a community college, for several weeks each year. The apprenticeship system offers financial advantages:

• attractive tuition fees,
• living expenses while attending class range from $1,200 to $1,500 per year.

Financial assistance may be available to help pay for tuition fees, text books and living expenses while in school which may allow an apprentice to complete an apprenticeship program without financial liability.

Competitive Salaries

Journeyperson salaries are comparable to those offered to graduates of post-secondary institutions.

There are many different opportunities depending on your ability, your attitude and your ambition.