Technical Training

Requirement to Attend Technical Training

Apprenticeship training consists of two primary components.  On-the-job training usually comprises about 80% of overall training.  Technical training through an accredited educational institution comprises the remaining 20%.  Regular attendance at technical training is an important part of an apprenticeship program.  It is a commitment made by both the apprentice and the employer when the Apprenticeship Application and Contract was signed.

Important Note for Apprentices

If you are employed, you must coordinate your training request with your employer prior to applying for technical training.

Benefits from Technical Training

If you are an apprentice, you will find that regular attendance at technical training offers many benefits.  Some reasons why you should attend technical training on a regular basis:

• Wages: Increase your wages as you progress through your training.
• Knowledge: Gain technical expertise to help improve your on-the-job skills.
• Confidence: Increase your confidence on the job.
• Recognition: Earn recognition for your commitment to your apprenticeship.
• Advancement: Move ahead in your career as you complete your technical training.
• Accomplishment: Achieve your goal of becoming a certified journeyperson.

If you are an employer, encouraging your apprentices to attend technical training regularly also provides a number of benefits for your business.  Here are some reasons why you should arrange for your apprentices to attend technical training on a regular basis:

• Productivity: Greater efficiency from your apprentices increases your bottom line.
• Competency: Improved know-how allows your apprentices to handle more complex work.
• Quality: Apprentices with increased skills and knowledge enhance the quality of your products and services.
• Retention: Apprentices are more likely to stay with an employer who encourages them to succeed.
• Credibility: Your company's image is enhanced when your workers are properly trained and certified.

Financial Assistance for Technical Training

Grants, scholarships and other financial assistance may be available. For more information see Financial Assistance or contact an Apprenticeship and Industry Training Office.

Enrolling in Technical Training

• select your trade (see Trades and Occupations)
• select an educational institution that offers training for your trade, choose a time to attend training, and check the number of seats remaining for the class you plan to attend (see Technical Training  Schedules)
• if there are no vacancies in the classes at your preferred location, check availability at the other locations that provide technical training for your trade.  Many educational institutions offer affordable student housing (see Student Housing)
• determine requirements for enrolling at the selected educational institution, and forward a completed enrollment form to the institution (see Enrollment Instructions)
• review books and materials required for training from the apprenticeship program section sapecific to your chosen trade (see Trades and Occupations)

When apprentices attend technical training, they are required to pay the applicable tuition fee and purchase course supplies.

Need More Information?

If you need additional information on technical training, call our toll-free information line at 1-877-899-SEAT (7328) or contact an Apprenticeship and Industry Training Office.