Education · 1 of 4

The path

One of the shortest apprenticeships in the trades. About 2.5 years in Ontario.

1. 1

   High school diploma

   Grade 12

   Shop and math. OYAP (Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program) or a co-op at a dealer can start you early.

2. 2

   Find a sponsor

   Weeks to months

   Equipment dealers, rental shops, golf courses and hardware stores with a repair counter. Spring is when they hire.

3. 3

   Register the apprenticeship

   Days

   Skilled Trades Ontario calls it Small Engine Technician (435A). Alberta calls it Outdoor Power Equipment Technician, Power Equipment branch.

4. 4

   Work and study

   2 to 3 years

   Ontario: 5,000 hours, 4,520 on the job plus 480 in school. Alberta: 3 periods of 1,000 hours, each with 6 to 8 weeks of class.

5. 5

   Certificate of Qualification

   After your hours

   Pass the provincial exam. It is not a Red Seal trade, so the ticket is provincial.