Education · 1 of 4
The path
Two related trades: installers (boarders) and finishers (tapers). Many people learn both.
- 1
High school diploma
Grade 12
Grade 12 helps but some employers will take you without it. Math and shop are useful.
- 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
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
Work and study
3 years
5,400 hours in Ontario for either trade. Installers do 4,800 on the job and 600 in class over two levels; finishers do 4,920 on the job and 480 in class in one level.
- 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.