Education · 1 of 4

The path

An apprenticeship, usually inside a plant. About 80% on the job, 20% in class.

1. 1

   High school diploma

   Grade 12

   Grade 12 with math and physics. Some provinces let you start through a high school apprenticeship program.

2. 2

   Find a sponsor

   Weeks to months

   A manufacturer, mine, mill or industrial contractor that will register you. Pre-apprenticeship college programs and a construction electrician start both help.

3. 3

   Register the apprenticeship

   Days

   With Skilled Trades Ontario (trade 442A), Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training, or your province's trades body. In Alberta and Quebec the single Electrician trade covers industrial work.

4. 4

   Work and study

   4 to 5 years

   9,000 hours in Ontario: about 8,160 on the job plus 840 hours in class over three levels.

5. 5

   Certificate of Qualification and Red Seal

   After your hours

   Pass the provincial exam. The Red Seal endorsement lets you work anywhere in Canada.