New deal improves labour mobility for apprentices

One of the biggest challenge facing industries today is with skilled labour. Alberta and Nova Scotia are working together to try and make it easier for skilled tradespeople to find jobs across provincial lines.

An agreement was signed, in principle, that makes apprenticeship training those who have completed apprenticeship training Alberta and Nova Scotia have signed an agreement in principle to ensure apprenticeship training is transferable between both provinces.

This agreement will improve the recognition of in-province training, allow for the recognition of apprenticeship work experience hours and enhance labour mobility for apprentices in both provinces.

“This is great news. I know a lot of people apprenticing who aren’t being recognized for their qualifications even though they’ve completed their program. It’s been tough for them to find an employer to take them on, and some have had to retake courses or work additional hours to get their journeyman status," said Marc MacNeil, a third year pipe fitter apprentice from Nova Scotia.

Under this arrangement, if an apprentice takes pre-apprenticeship training at the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) and then moves to Alberta, their training will be recognized. This will save apprentices from writing additional exams or repeating courses.

The two provinces are also working on an agreement that would make the process of moving between Nova Scotia and Alberta easier and less expensive for apprentices to continue their education.

"Meeting face-to-face with Premier Hancock this week during the premiers' meetings in Charlottetown gave us a chance to discuss the real issues facing workers in our two provinces. This is a win-win for our two provinces - and more importantly, it’s a win for our apprentices. Today's reality is, workers are moving all over the country. Our job is to make sure they have clear pathways to obtaining their certification so they can take full advantage of the good jobs in our region," said the Premier of Nova Scotia, Stephen McNeil.