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More apprentices register, but few finish
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Apprenticeship training programs represent an important source of new skilled workers. In most provinces, the training of registered apprentices combines classroom technical training with practical work experience.
The length of apprenticeship training programs varies from two to five years, depending on the trade or profession. However, programs can often take longer than the expected time to complete.
The national increase in construction projects resulted in record registrations in apprenticeship training programs in 2005. From 1999 to 2005, the number of registrations rose 53% to 32,210.
This growth occurred primarily in the building construction and the electricity, electronics and related trades. Building construction apprentices accounted for 23% of the total growth in 2005 registrations.
Although the number registering in apprenticeship programs has grown considerably, relatively few Canadian students complete their training. In 2005, 20,555 students earned their diploma, or 2,035 more graduates than in 2003. Except in 2002, when there was a slight decrease, the number of apprentices graduating remained stable from 1999 to 2003.
Many factors can lead an apprentice to discontinue a training program, according to the Registered Apprenticeship Information System. Some of these factors are limited job opportunities, training costs, family reasons, too few tradespersons to provide supervision, literacy level and a lack of jobs once certified.
