The Trade Apprenticeship
A trade apprenticeship is how you gain the knowledge and skills you need for a career in your trade. Most apprenticeships take about four years to complete. You’ll spend approximately six to eight weeks per year in the classroom or shop learning from an instructor. The rest of the year, you’ll earn while you learn, working on a job site alongside experienced tradespeople and getting paid to do it.
As a trade apprentice, you’ll spend part of your time in a classroom or shop, learning from a skilled trades instructor. The rest of the year, you’ll earn while you learn, working on a job site alongside experienced tradespeople. At the end of your trade apprenticeship, SkilledTradesBC will award you a trade credential or “ticket” that allows you to work in different places in BC, throughout Canada or all over the world.
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On-the-job training is a critical part of your learning and one of the most rewarding aspects of apprenticeship. Finding an employer who is willing to mentor and sponsor you will be one of the biggest challenges you face, but there are steps you can take to increase your chances of landing and keeping a job.
Search WorkBC’s Apprenticeship Job Match at www.workbc.ca/trades to find companies that are looking for apprentices in your trade.
Contact your local Board of Trade, Chamber of Commerce or WorkBC centre to find smaller companies that may not always advertise jobs.
Go to local events like job fairs to connect with companies that hire your trade.
Let people know you’re looking for a job, including family members, their friends and other adults.
Find out how to apply. Depending on the industry or company. you may submit an application online or show up at the job site.
Highlight relevant skills and experiences on your resume. Do you have a First Aid Certificate? Did you take Woodworking 12? Do you regularly change the oil on your car?
Practice your pitch. Be ready to explain who you are and why you want to work for this company in particular.
Be professional. Dress suitably, user respectful language, and make sure your email address and outgoing voicemail messages are work-appropriate.
Smile before you say hello on the phone. It changes your voice and gives a good first impression.
Keep a record of when and where you apply. That way, you can follow up later.
Don’t give up! It can take between 12 and 15 applications to get an interview or even hear back.
Have a positive attitude. Be willing to begin at the bottom and work your way up.
Come prepared. Bring your lunch and any necessary tools or gear.
Find out the cell phone policy – and follow it.
Ask questions if you don’t understand the instructions.
Be ready to work overtime. Many trades don’t follow the clock.
Don’t stand around. If you’ve finished your job, tidy your workspace.
Talk to your supervisor if you have any concerns.
SkilledTradesBC Youth Trades Programs let you get started in a trade while you’re still in high school. That means you could be working in your field, learning from experts and earning a paycheque — all before you graduate.