Apprentices Across the Country Can Now Train More Easily

Apprentices can now move between provinces and territories more easily to complete their training.

As of Jan. 1, apprentices' technical training, work experience and examination results will be recognized across the country. Students graduating from approved pre-apprenticeship training programs will also get full credit for their training.

"Apprentices should be able to transfer their training credits just like other students studying in post-secondary programs," said Kelly Regan, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. "This agreement ensures pre-apprenticeship, technical and on-the-job training is recognized so our apprentices can earn their certification and take full advantage of opportunities across the country and here at home."

Nova Scotia currently has mobility agreements with Alberta and the other Atlantic provinces. This agreement expands the recognition to the remaining provinces and territories.

"As a glazier apprentice, I was unable to receive the training I wanted in Nova Scotia," said Pat Grimbly, a fourth-year Nova Scotia glazier apprentice with Superior Glass. "Without agreements like these, I would not have been able to study in Alberta and work at home in Nova Scotia. This agreement will help apprentices get the training and work experience they need regardless of where it's available."

This new agreement follows the signing of the Provincial-Territorial Apprentice Mobility Protocol by Canada's premiers in July 2015. At that time, premiers mandated ministers responsible for apprenticeship to implement a provincial-territorial approach to mobility for apprentices and individuals involved in pre-apprenticeship training.

This initiative also aligns with government's efforts to reduce red tape and foster more opportunities for businesses and citizens to be successful. This week is Red Tape Awareness Week and Nova Scotia has been recognized by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business for its work to improve the labour mobility of apprentices and for creating the Office of Regulatory Affairs and Service Effectiveness.