Can anyone register as an apprentice?
Yes, anyone can become an apprentice. There are no barriers to hinder you from becoming an apprentice should you and your employer agree to enter into an apprenticeship contract.

Do I have to be employed to become an apprentice?
Yes, since an apprenticeship is a contract between you and an employer, it is a requirement that you be employed in your chosen occupation. 80 percent of your apprenticeship program is on the job, working under the supervision of a journeyperson.

Do I have to find my own job or will the Apprenticeship Branch find a job for me?
The onus is on you, as a prospective apprentice, to find employment. Apprenticeship and Occupational Certification may be able to suggest possible employers, but you would have to obtain the position yourself.

Are there many women registered as apprentices?
More and more women are being attracted to the non-traditional type of occupations. Most women who have chosen a career in a non-traditional area are more then happy with their decision. Women are encouraged to register into an apprenticeship program.

Would other provinces recognize my apprenticeship from New Brunswick?
Every Canadian jurisdiction recognizes prior learning, however, assessments of prior learning may vary from province to province.

What are the benefits of being an apprentice?
Earning a wage while learning a skilled occupation/trade
Learning from a skilled journeyperson
Short periods of technical training to reinforce what has been learned on the job
Chances of employment are greater once an apprenticeship program has been completed
Earning credentials without incurring a large debt

Can I get credit towards my apprenticeship from previous work experience?
Yes, depending on the type of work experience, if it is relevant to the occupation and if your work experience is current.

Can I expect steady work as an apprentice?
An apprentice works about as much as the average industry worker does. And, like fellow workers, an apprentice may be subjected to industry layoffs. Most employers do make an effort to have the apprentice work as steadily as possible.

What are the educational requirements for me to become an apprentice?
99 percent of all apprenticeable occupations/trades require a Grade 12 diploma or equivalent.

How much does it cost to become an apprentice?
At this point in time, there is no cost associated with you registering as an apprentice.

How much does it cost to go to school….Will I have to get a student loan?
There is a tuition fee for each block of training that you attend. Usually, your employer will give you a lay-off “of convenience” which then entitles you to receive EI benefits. If you are eligible for EI benefits, you are also entitled to receive grant money to assist with your costs for tuition fee, textbooks, living expenses, etc.

Once I complete my apprenticeship and get my journeyperson certificate, will I be able to work in other provinces of Canada?
Yes, once you complete your Apprenticeship program you will receive a Diploma of Apprenticeship, a Certificate of Qualification and a Red Seal will be affixed to these documents if your occupation is a recognized Red Seal occupation. Being a holder of a journeyperson certificate gives you the mobility to work in different provinces in Canada. Most provinces honour journeyperson certificates from other provinces.

When I get my journeyperson papers, what career choices are available to me?
There are numerous options open to you. You could become an instructor at a Community College; you could become an inspector; you could start your own business. There are many opportunities depending on your abilities, attitudes and ambitions.