Consensus on training has been reached for 32 Canadian Red Seal trades, including plumber, steamfitter/pipefitter, boilermaker, sheet metal worker, and refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic.
The Canadian Council of Directors of Apprenticeship (CCDA) has announced the harmonization of apprenticeship training initiative. The initiative aligns trade name, total training hours (on the jobsite and in class), number of training levels and sequencing of technical training content across all jurisdictions.
All recommendations are set to be implemented by Sept. 2020. They began in 2015. The first three phases have been completed. This includes plumbers and steamfitters that are both required to complete 7,200 hours of training with four levels of training. Boilermakers came under phase 3. This trade is required 5,400 hours of training with three levels of training.
The next phase is set for Sept. 2019. Refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic will also require 7,200 hours of training within four levels. The final phase is set for Sept. 2020.
More work is expected by the CCDA to continue to harmonize the remaining Red Seal trades as occupational standards are developed. The curriculum which has already been harmonized will continue to be monitored to ensure that the training content stays current and continues to meet industry needs, reports CCDA.
