Apprenticeship

Learn about earning your apprenticeship and taking steps toward becoming a skilled trades professional. 

Apprenticeship through Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency (NSAA)

Apprenticeship is a way of learning a skilled trade through technical training (level/block training in school) and on-the-job experience. To work in many occupations (e.g., compulsory trades), you must complete an apprenticeship to meet a standard of excellence (gain certification) in your trade. Completing your apprenticeship is a step toward becoming a certified journeyperson (skilled trades professional).

Entering an apprenticeship

You typically become and apprentice by:

• Completing a pre-apprenticeship certificate or diploma program, finding employment as an apprentice and taking in-class technical training to progress through your apprenticeship levels/blocks, or
• Directly entering the workforce and learning on the job with technical training

NSCC and the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency (NSAA) work in partnership to deliver technical training.

Benefits of apprenticeship

As an apprentice, you:

• Get paid while you learn. You earn a wage from your employer, and your salary increases as you successfully complete each level/block of training.
• Learn from a certified journeyperson (skilled trades professional). Apprenticeships allow you the unique opportunity to learn on the job from a highly-qualified person.

You can start an apprenticeship at any time by registering with the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency (NSAA).

Pre-apprenticeship programs at NSCC

Our pre-apprenticeship programs offer a pathway to entering an apprenticeship. These programs:

• Help you build foundational skills and confidence before entering the workforce as an apprentice
• Prepare you for real industry and workplace conditions
• Allow you to earn credits that can be applied toward your apprenticeship

Explore NSCC pre-apprenticeship programs and their corresponding apprenticeships.