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Whether you’re working with a high school student considering a hands-on career, or a mature client exploring a shift into the trades, providing clear information can support better decision-making on whether to venture into the skilled trades. Below is a curated mix of resources to help you and your clients navigate pathways into skilled trades, from apprenticeship basics to specialized support for underrepresented groups.
Become an apprentice (Skilled trades BC)
Step-by-step guidance on how to enter the apprenticeship system in BC, including eligibility, training options, required hours and how to progress to certified tradesperson status. Career practitioners can use this as a roadmap to help clients understand the pathway from interest to apprenticeship to certification. It’s especially helpful for clients who are ready to take actionable next steps.
Pathways to skilled trades (Skills for change)
Skills for Change is a national non-profit supporting newcomers, refugees, youth, women and other underserved communities across Canada. Its Pathways to Skilled Trades program is a free 4-week pre-apprenticeship initiative that combines safety training, basic trade exposure, employment preparation and job-placement support, making it a useful option for clients interested in entering various skilled trades like construction, welding, industrial trades and more.
Trades information (Skilled trades Ontario)
This provincial agency is a one-stop shop for opportunities in the skilled trades in Ontario. The trades information resource is designed to help learners, career practitioners and employers understand the structure and requirements of skilled trades in the province. On the Trades Information page, you can search and explore individual trades to find key details such as trade classifications, whether a written exam is required, and whether the trade offers a Red Seal endorsement which is a national certification that facilitates mobility across Canada.
Skills Ontario: resources for students and parents
Provides detailed explanation for apprenticeships, what “apprenticeable occupations” are and programs for transitional pathways for students. This is a strong resource for those working with high school students or parents to explain terminology, options and entry-routes into trades.
Apprenticeship and skilled trades: Training and supports (ESDC)
This federal resource offers clients an overview of funding, eligibility and support in the national context. This information is particularly useful for apprentices or tradespeople who are moving provinces or looking at cross-Canada mobility. It outlines essential training for trades, how to become an apprentice, job-matching and financial/loan/grant support for apprentices and employers.
Find your skilled trade (ESDC)
This resource introduces clients to the concept of skilled trades, the national standards, and practical pathways to entry. It is a comprehensive federal portal that outlines more than 300 designated trades in Canada and explains how apprenticeships work, what sectors they serve, and labour-market demand across regions. It’s an excellent national resource for career professionals working with clients exploring or preparing for apprenticeships, especially those considering mobility, credentialing and funding options.
Skills Canada/Compétences Canada
This is a national non-governmental organization promoting careers in skilled trades and technologies for youth. It offers an interactive map of programs, careers by sector and outreach tools. This resource is especially helpful for high-school students and younger jobseekers exploring what trades look like and how they relate to future careers.
Additional reading
- Apprenticeships in Canada: your cross-country informational guide
- Skilled trades should be promoted as a first-choice career path
- Programs and resources to support women in the trades
- Where to find labour market information in Canada
