UBC Canadian District receives funding to hire first-year apprentices

WINNIPEG — The United Brotherhood of Carpenter’s (UBC) Canadian District has launched a two-year, $37-million program funded by the government of Canada’s Apprenticeship Service to provide support to SMEs in Canadian construction and manufacturing “Red Seal” trades to help them to hire new, first-year apprentices needing a leg-up to begin careers in the skilled trades.

“As the demand for skilled trade workers outpace the need in our country, it’s critical that we do everything we can to recruit and retain the next generation,” said Jason Rowe, vice-president, UBC. “The UBC is working hard to eliminate barriers and provide an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workplace for all Canadians. This program supports small businesses by equipping them with the necessary tools and resources to help apprentices succeed.”

This funding enables SMEs to hire up to two new first-year apprentices per year. Under the program, SMEs can receive up to $5,000 for every new first year apprentice they hire and an additional $5,000 if that apprentice identifies as a person from an equity deserving group such as women, Indigenous people, newcomers, persons with disabilities, including LGBTQ2 and Black communities.

The program provides assistance to help employers navigate the apprenticeship system, onboard new apprentices and set up the appropriate workplace training via a digital toolkit that can be found on their website at ubc-asp.ca.