Apprenticeship Basics
Apprenticeship has a proud history. For hundreds of years, valuable trade skills and knowledge have been passed from one generation to the next through apprenticeships.
As an employer, when you invest in apprentices you invest in the future of your business and our economy. Everyone in the apprenticeship training system has a role to play in making the apprenticeship experience - and investment – a success.
Most apprenticeships take about 4 years, and start with a commitment. The sponsor/employer commits to hire and train the apprentice. The apprentice commits to learn on the job and take the required technical training. Both the sponsor and the apprentice must register with ITA and track progress.
As an employer, you pay your apprentices while they learn on the job, and you commit to having a skilled trades professional on hand to supervise and teach them. If your skilled trades professional is not certified, you may apply to ITA for Sign Off Authority to complete this requirement.
Your apprentices will spend about 15% of their time in technical (classroom) training. Apprentices are responsible for enrolling in and paying for their technical training. ITA will test your apprentice when they've completed the required workplace hours and technical training. If they pass, ITA will ask the supervising journeyperson you have assigned to confirm their skill level and competence.