Institute of Skilled Trades Industry Bulletin

This Bulletin provides a high-level update on current initiatives, upcoming activities and key information relevant to our industry partners, discussed in monthly Institute of Skilled Trades (IST) Council meetings. The Council will continue advancing priorities and sharing further updates as work progresses.

The next IST Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, May 4.

Updates - April 2026

View key IST Council meeting updates.

Attendance policies for apprenticeship technical training and pre-apprenticeship

Members reviewed updated attendance policies from NSCC and the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency (NSAA) for both apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship.
Status: In progress

Accountability framework

Members reviewed a draft accountability framework designed to strengthen system performance. The framework includes targets related to graduation, job attachment, progression and Red Seal outcomes.
Status: In progress

Full trade review

Between January and April 2026, NSCC and NSAA completed full trade review sprints with industry, taking an in-depth look at 4 trades. The Council received an update on the progress of these reviews. The next set of trades for upcoming sprints has now been confirmed.
Status: Implementation planning in progress for next set of trades

$25M investment from the Province

Members discussed the Province’s $25 million investment over 5 years and industry engagement in prioritizing the annual spending, including equipment, tools, shop improvements and maintenance.
Status: Implementation planning in progress

Work placement improvements

Members discussed current work placement challenges and reviewed pilot initiatives to strengthen employer engagement and student opportunities.
Status: Planning underway

View past IST Council meeting updates

Updates will be added here as they become available.

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Last updated on: Apr. 22, 2026 02:54 PM