Education · 1 of 4

The path

Two related trades: installers (boarders) and finishers (tapers). Many people learn both.

1. 1

   High school diploma

   Grade 12

   Grade 12 helps but some employers will take you without it. Math and shop are useful.

2. 2

   Find a sponsor

   Weeks

   A drywall contractor, a general contractor or the union hall. Showing up as a helper is the usual way in.

3. 3

   Register the apprenticeship

   Days

   With Skilled Trades Ontario, Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training, or your province's trades body. In Ontario the installer trade is Drywall, Acoustic and Lathing Applicator; the taper trade is Drywall Finisher and Plasterer.

4. 4

   Work and study

   3 years

   About 5,400 hours in Ontario for either trade: roughly 4,800 to 4,900 on the job plus 480 to 600 hours in class, in two or three levels.

5. 5

   Certificate of Qualification and Red Seal

   After your hours

   Pass the provincial exam. The Red Seal trades are Lather (Interior Systems Mechanic) for installers and Drywall Finisher and Plasterer for tapers.