The federal government’s new Skilled Trades Apprenticeship Service and Program is designed to help small- and medium-sized employers (SMEs) hire new first-year apprentices at level 1 in 39 Red Seal trades, while helping apprentices gain work experience.
Among the Red Seal trades eligible for support through the program are plumber, gasfitter A and B, refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic, sheet metal worker, and steamfitter/pipefitter.
The program is offered through Employment and Social Development Canada, and offers SMEs $5,000 for each eligible new first-year apprentice hired, and $10,000 if the apprentice is from an equity-deserving group, including women, persons with disabilities, Indigenous people, members of 2SLGBTQI+ communities, racialized communities, and newcomers to Canada. The program also provides supports to employers to help them hire apprentices.
Interested SMEs should contact a provider of Apprenticeship Service supports in their region. Click here to view the list of providers.
Skilled Trades Apprenticeship Service and Program