Trades guide

How to find a sponsor

Every apprenticeship starts with a sponsor: an employer that signs on to train you. There are two routes: through a union training program, or directly with an employer. Both below lead to the same journeyperson ticket.

Road A: through a training program

1. Find the training program for your trade. Search "[your trade] apprenticeship training [your city]".
2. Look for the training centre. It's usually the front door for new apprentices.
3. Ask how intake works. Ask what they need from you.
4. Get dispatched. Many programs send members to contractors through a hiring hall, so your sponsor may change from job to job.

Road B: directly with an employer

1. Make a target list. List shops in your trade within commuting distance, small ones included.
2. Apply directly. Bring a short resume, your safety tickets, a driver's licence if you have one, and a clear "I want to be your apprentice" line.
3. Follow up in person. A polite visit early in the morning often beats a fifth email.
4. Ask them to register you. Your employer signs you up with your province's apprenticeship authority.
5. Check the basics. Ask about wage steps, school release for technical training and who pays for tools.

Either road

• Check your province's apprenticeship authority site for registration steps, school dates and any grants for apprentices.
• Use the board. Apprentices never pay to post.
• Get the starter tickets (like WHMIS and first aid) that employers often ask for.

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