Skilled Trades 101
How many Skilled Trades are in Ontario?
There are 144 Skilled Trades in Ontario
I install and repair toilets, sinks and water pipes
Plumber
Apprentices get paid while they learn
TRUE! Apprenticeships are "earn while you learn" opportunities
What do you call the set of instructions that tells a computer what to do?
Code (or program)
How much learning on the job does an apprenticeship involve?
75% - 80% of the learning for an apprenticeship happens on the job (while you're being paid!)
I wire houses to ensure your lights and other electronic devices work safely
Electrician
TRUE! There are lots of paths that a career in the skilled trades can take, including: business ownership, teaching, and union representative positions
TRUE OR FALSE - Careers in technology always require a university degree
FALSE! There are technology careers that can be started through apprenticeships, college diplomas, university degrees, and on the job training
What is the title of the person training an apprentice?
Journeyperson
I maintain and repair your car, truck, or SUV including diagnosing and repairing your engine, replacing your brakes and much more
Automotive Service Technician
Apprenticeships are only for construction jobs
FALSE! There are apprenticeships available under 4 different sectors: Construction, Industrial, Motive & Service
What career trains computers to recognize patterns and make predictions?
AI (Artificial Intelligence) Specialist
How long does an apprenticeship typically take?
The length of an apprenticeship depends on the type of trade but they typically take about 2-5 years to complete.
I use tools like hammers and saws to build structures likes houses, decks, and sheds
Carpenter
The trades are in high demand in Ontario
TRUE! Over the next 10 years, Ontario is expected to need over 400,000 workers to fill job openings in skilled trades-related occupations, across all sectors, due to retirements and job growth.
Name three soft skills that would be beneficial if you want to pursue a career in the technology sector
Creativity
Problem solving
Numeracy
Flexibility and Adaptability
Communication
Teamwork
And many more!
What is the difference between a Voluntary and a Compulsory Trade?
Compulsory trades require government-issued certification or registered apprentice status to work legally, while non-compulsory trades do not require registration / certification, though certification offers significant career advantages.
I maintain and repair your Air Conditioning to keep you cool in the summer
Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic
To start an apprenticeship, you have to go to college or university first
FALSE! Most trades require only a high school diploma and you can get started while still in high school through the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) Program
Name three careers that would fall under the technology sector
Robotics Technician, Technical Support Specialist, Computer / AI Programmer, Data analyst, Web Developer, Network Engineer, Database Administrator, Cybersecurity Specialist, Graphic Designer and more!