Apprenticeships
Earn while you learn as an apprentice
Train to work in a skilled trade, and get paid while you gain work experience! Georgian College is a training delivery agent and provides the in-school portion of apprenticeship programs for registered apprentices in our state-of-the-art shop spaces.
What is an apprentice?
An apprentice is someone who is training to work in a skilled trade.
As a registered apprentice, you’ll receive most of your training on the job under the supervision of an experienced tradesperson, and you’ll be paid while you gain work experience.
You’ll also complete in-school training at Georgian College in our state-of-the-art shop spaces. While the majority of the cost of the in-school training is paid by the ministry, you’re required to pay a classroom fee of $10 per day to Georgian (on average, this totals approximately $400 to $700 per level, depending on the program).
At the end of the two- to five-year journey, you’ll have developed a high level of skill, judgment and creativity to succeed in this high-demand industry.
In Ontario, apprenticeship training is run by the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development. Georgian College is a Training Delivery Agent.
Explore Georgian’s programs and facilities, and find out how to get started!
Why apprenticeships at Georgian?
Highlights
- Prepare for an in-demand, high-paying career in the skilled trades like electrical, welding, plumbing and more
- Join the workforce and help the shortage of skilled tradespeople in Canada
- Complete the in-school portion of your apprentice training in Georgian’s state-of-the-art facilities
- Develop practical and technical skills and learn the latest industry standards and technology with cutting-edge equipment
- Enjoy small class sizes and benefit from hands-on training from experienced faculty
- Earn an income while educating yourself in a trade with paid on-the-job training
How to get started
The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development provides information and services to help you determine if you qualify for an apprenticeship program and how to apply to be an apprentice.
Below is an overview of the steps you need to take to study in an apprenticeship program at Georgian.
Visit ontario.ca for further details.
Step 1: Find a Georgian program you’re interested in
- By taking an apprenticeship program, you’ll gain a combination of practical and theoretical knowledge, and the experience needed to become a skilled tradesperson and progress in your career.
- Check out Georgian’s apprenticeship programs.
Step 2: Find an employer or an sponsor
- A sponsor is someone who agrees to hire, train and pay you and provide you with apprenticeship training.
- A sponsor can be a single employer, individual (e.g., a contractor) or a group of employers (e.g., unions or non-union consortiums).
- Visit our Career and Employment Community Services webpage for support with your job search.
Step 3: Submit your application
- Visit the Skilled Trades Ontario Portal (STOP) to submit your application (if you’re 16 to 17 years old, you must download a paper application)
- Before you begin the application process, make sure you have the following information:
- your personal information (i.e., social insurance number, mailing and email addresses)
- sponsor’s information
- sponsor contact person’s information
- work arrangement details
Step 4: Sign a training agreement with your sponsor
- After your application has been approved, you’ll sign a training agreement with your sponsor.
- This means you’re registered with Skilled Trades Ontario.
Step 5: Register for training
- Receive an Offer of Classroom Training from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development.
- Choose Georgian College as your preferred training facility.
- Follow the instructions under the Register and Pay section in your Offer of Classroom Training to register for in-class training at Georgian.
Step 6: Prepare for training
- You’ll receive communication from your program area at Georgian with next steps before classes begin.
Apprenticeship programs offered at Georgian
Georgian delivers the in-class training to apprentices currently registered with the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, including:
A Child Development Practitioner (CDP) plans and implements age-appropriate service, supports and programs for children that facilitate physical, social, emotional and cognitive growth. An apprenticeship training program consists of on-the-job and in-school training.
Child Development Practitioner is a trade regulated by the Ontario College of Trades and Apprenticeship Act, 2009. Qualified individuals may obtain a Certificate of Qualification, which confirms its holder has the skills, knowledge and experience that meet industry standards of practice for the trade.
In order to complete an apprenticeship training program in the trade, individuals must become members of the Ontario College of Trades (the College), and apprentices must remain active members for the duration of their apprenticeship.
Program: CDAA
Credential: Apprentice Week Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 1,083 hours
Location: Orillia, Owen Sound
For more information, please visit the Child Development Practitioner program outline.
Graduates of Culinary Skills – Cook II Apprenticeship are able to work in a range of specialized, fast-paced hospitality and food service establishments. They work in accordance with relevant industry, organization and legal standards and regulations, as well as industry best practices for health, safety, sanitation, quality assurance and customer service.
Cook is a trade regulated by the Ontario College of Trades and Apprenticeship Act, 2009. Qualified individuals may obtain a Certificate of Qualification, which confirms its holder has the skills, knowledge and experience that meet industry standards of practice for the trade.
Program: CKAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 720 hours
Location: Barrie, Owen Sound
For more information, please visit the Culinary Skills – Cook II program outline.
The Developmental Services Worker – Apprenticeship program provides training for individuals who are interested in working with and/or are currently working with persons with a variety of developmental needs. The purpose of the program is to provide apprentices with the knowledge, skills and abilities to assist persons who have intellectual and/or other related developmental disabilities achieve their potential.
Developmental Services Worker is a trade regulated by the Ontario College of Trades and Apprenticeship Act, 2009. Qualified individuals may obtain a Certificate of Qualification, which confirms its holder has the skills, knowledge and experience that meet industry standards of practice for the trade.
Program: DSAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 780 hours
Location: Orillia
For more information, please visit the Developmental Services Worker program outline.
An Educational Assistant supports educators in working with students, including those with exceptional education needs to implement education, safety and behaviour support plans. Develops intervention strategies to support successful student outcomes. Promotes a positive environment for learning and assisting with life and living skills development. An apprenticeship training program consists of on-the-job and in-school training.
Educational Assistant is a trade regulated by the Ontario College of Trades and Apprenticeship Act, 2009. Qualified individuals may obtain a Certificate of Qualification, which confirms its holder has the skills, knowledge and experience that meet industry standards of practice for the trade.
In order to complete an apprenticeship training program in the trade, individuals must become members of the Ontario College of Trades (the College), and apprentices must remain active members for the duration of their apprenticeship.
Program: EAAA
Credential: Apprentice Week Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 852 hours
Location: Owen Sound
For more information, please visit the Educational Assistant program outline.
The Electrical Techniques – Industrial Electrician Apprenticeship program prepares apprentices to install, maintain and repair highly sophisticated electrical equipment in an industrial setting. Apprentices explore principles and applications of instrumentation control systems; programmable controllers; electronics, schematics and blueprint interpretation; safety and circuit; and component troubleshooting.
Program: EIAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 840 hours
Location: Midland, Owen Sound
For more information, please visit the Electrical Techniques – Industrial Electrician program outline.
An Electrician – Construction and Maintenance plans, assembles, connects, installs, repairs, inspects, tests, verifies and maintains electrical systems in various settings (i.e., residential, commercial, institutional, industrial). The apprentice measures, cuts, threads, bends, assembles and installs conduits, electrical conductor enclosures and supports. Electrical systems include heating, lighting, power, communication, control, security systems and renewable energy and energy storage systems.
Electrician – Construction and Maintenance is a trade regulated by the Ontario College of Trades and Apprenticeship Act, 2009. Qualified individuals may obtain a Certificate of Qualification, which confirms its holder has the skills, knowledge and experience that meet industry standards of practice for the trade.
In order to complete an apprenticeship training program in the trade, individuals must become members of the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development, and apprentices must remain active members for the duration of their apprenticeship.
Program: ECAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 840 hours
Location: Midland, Owen Sound
For more information, please visit the Electrical Techniques – Construction and Maintenance program outline.
Graduates of the General Construction Carpentry Techniques – Apprenticeship program have demonstrated achievement of vocational learning outcomes during in-school apprenticeship training that include the essential skills, knowledge and attitudes for entry-level positions in specific carpentry environments. The 720 hour in-school program focuses primarily on theoretical knowledge and essential skills required to support the performance objectives of the Apprenticeship Training Standards.
Program: CAAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 720 hours
Location: Muskoka, Owen Sound
For more information, please visit the General Construction Carpentry Techniques program outline.
The Hairstyling Techniques – Apprenticeship program consists of on-the-job and in-school training. The program typically takes two years to complete and consists of:
- 3,020 hours of on-the-job training/work experience
- 480 hours of in-school training
Apprentices learn to perform routine salon business functions as well as provide service fundamentals including: scalp and hair treatments, cutting and hair styling, chemical treatments such as waving, relaxing and straightening, colour services, working with wigs, hairpieces and extensions.
Hairstylist is a trade regulated by the Ontario College of Trades and Apprenticeship Act, 2009. Qualified individuals may obtain a Certificate of Qualification, which confirms its holder has the skills, knowledge and experience that meet industry standards of practice for the trade.
Program: HAAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Work-Integrated Learning: Apprentice Placement
Length: 480 hours
Location: Barrie
For more information, please visit the Hairstyling Techniques program outline.
For more information, please contact apprentice@georgiancollege.ca.
Graduates of the Machine Shop – General Machining Apprenticeship program have demonstrated achievement of vocational learning outcomes during in-school apprenticeship training that include the essential skills, knowledge and attitudes for entry-level positions in specific machining environments.
The 720 hour in-school program focuses primarily on theoretical knowledge and essential skills required to support the performance objectives of the Apprenticeship Training Standards.
A General Machinist cuts, shapes and finishes metal to make precision machined parts and components used in all areas of manufacturing. General Machinist is a trade regulated by the Ontario College of Trades and Apprenticeship Act, 2009. Qualified individuals may obtain a Certificate of Qualification, which confirms its holder has the skills, knowledge and experience that meet industry standards of practice for the trade.
Program: GMAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 720 hours
Location: Barrie
For more information, please visit the Machine Shop – General Machining program outline.
This 720-hour program consisting of three levels is designed to provide the apprentice with theoretical knowledge of all aspects of the Mould Maker trade as well as practical training necessary to complement on-the-job training experience for entry-level positions in specific machining, tool and mould environments.
Program: MMAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 720 hours
Location: Barrie
For more information, please visit the Machine Shop – Mould Maker program outline.
A Tool and Die Maker designs, creates, repairs and tests prototypes and production tools such as dies, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges and specialty tools using various metals, alloys and plastics. This 720-hour program consisting of three 240-hour levels is designed to provide apprentices with the theoretical knowledge of all aspects of the tool and die maker trade, as well as practical training necessary to complement the on-the-job training experience.
Tool and Die Maker is a trade regulated by the Ontario College of Trades and Apprenticeship Act, 2009. Qualified individuals may obtain a Certificate of Qualification, which confirms its holder has the skills, knowledge and experience that meet industry standards of practice for the trade.
Program: TDAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 720 hours
Location: Barrie
For more information, please visit the Machine Shop – Tool and Die program outline.
The Mechanical Techniques – Construction Boilermaker Apprenticeship program prepares students for a career in the rewarding and extensive boilermaker field. Boilermakers build, install and maintain boilers, tanks and vessels-huge steel containers with thick, solid walls that hold liquids and gases which must withstand a great deal of pressure for long periods of time. The Construction Boilermaker apprenticeship requires about four years including 6,600 workplace hours and 720 in-school hours of post-secondary training. One must pass an exam to receive a Certificate of Qualification with journey person status, which includes an Inter-Provincial Trade Certification (Red Seal).
Program: CBAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 720 hours
Location: Owen Sound
For more information, please visit the Mechanical Techniques – Construction Boilermaker program outline.
The Mechanical Techniques – Marine Engine Apprenticeship program consists of three levels designed to provide apprentices with the theoretical knowledge and practical training necessary to complement the Marine Engine Technician apprentice’s on-the-job training.
A Marine Engine Technician inspects, diagnoses and repairs marine and watercraft systems including gasoline and diesel engines, fuel management systems, engine electrical systems, marine electrical, electronic and navigation systems, steering and hydraulic systems, drives and propulsion systems.
Program: MEAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 720 hours
Location: Midland
For more information, please visit the Mechanical Techniques – Marine Engine program outline.
The Mechanical Techniques – Small Engine Apprenticeship program consists of two levels designed to provide apprentices with the theoretical knowledge and practical training necessary to complement the Small Engine Technician apprentice’s on-the-job training.
A Small Engine Technician diagnoses, repairs and maintains, small to medium sized engine and engine-related systems for off-road vehicles and powered equipment. Specifically, a Small Engine Technician repairs and maintains off-road vehicles and powered equipment systems.
Program: SEAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 480 hours
Location: Midland
For more information, please visit the Mechanical Techniques – Small Engine program outline.
The motive power field encompasses a variety of vehicle transportation. Graduates of the Motive Power Fundamentals – Automotive Service Apprenticeship program have demonstrated achievement of vocational learning outcomes that include the essential skills, knowledge and attitudes for entry-level positions in specific motive power environments. This 720-hour program which consists of a 240-hour level 1, a 240-hour level 2, and a 240-hour level 3, is designed to provide the apprentice with theoretical knowledge of all aspects of automotive repair, as well as practical training necessary to complement the apprentice’s on-the-job training experience.
Automotive Service Technician is a trade regulated by the Ontario College of Trades and Apprenticeships Act 2009. Qualified Individuals may obtain a Certificate of Qualification, which confirms its holder has the skills, knowledge and experience that meet industry standards of practice for the trade.
Program: ASAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 720 hours
Location: Owen Sound
For more information, please visit the Motive Power Fundamentals – Automotive Service program outline.
Plumbing Techniques consists of 3 levels, is designed to provide apprentices with theoretical knowledge of all aspects of plumbing as well as practical training necessary to complement the apprentice’s on-the-job training experience. A Plumber installs, repairs and maintains piping systems, fixtures and other plumbing equipment used for water distribution, drainage and waste disposal.
Plumber is a trade regulated by the Ontario College of Trades and Apprenticeship Act, 2009. Qualified individuals may obtain a Certificate of Qualification, which confirms its holder has the skills, knowledge and experience that meet industry standards of practice for the trade.
Program: PBAP
Credential: Ontario College Certificate
Delivery: Full-time
Length: 720 hours
Location: Midland
For more information, please visit the Plumbing Techniques program outline.
Pre-apprenticeship programs are offered at our Midland, Owen Sound and Muskoka campuses. As these are managed by the individual campuses and can change year to year, please reach out to your local campus to learn about any current pre-apprenticeship opportunities.
Midland Campus | midland-pre-app@georgiancollege.ca
Learning experiences
Barrie Campus
Our Barrie Campus has a dedicated Centre for Skilled Trades. The building features a woodworking shop, hairstyling studio, precision skills shop and robotics lab.
In these facilities, students engage with materials, tools, equipment and machinery of the trade, just like in work environments.
Midland Campus
Georgian’s Robbert Hartog Midland Campus offers exceptional apprenticeship and skills training, providing the industry with a vital, highly qualified workforce.
Skilled Trades students benefit from 67,000 square feet of learning space, including 39,000 square feet of dedicated shop space.
Muskoka Campus
Our Muskoka Campus, located in beautiful Bracebridge, is home to state-of-the-art skilled trades facilities.
Featuring 18,000 square feet of learning space, the Muskoka Campus includes a 7,000-square-foot carpentry shop and a 300-square-foot paint and finishing room.
Owen Sound Campus
Georgian’s Owen Sound Campus features many learning labs dedicated to skilled trades and apprenticeship training.
In these spaces, students learn about electrical techniques, gas-fitting, carpentry, gaining hands-on training with the same equipment used on the job.
Orillia Campus
Georgian’s Orillia Campus is home to the Human Services, Community Safety and Veterinary programs.
With a focus on hands-on learning, through co-op, research and field placements, you’ll have access to great amenities in a picturesque setting.
Contact us
Georgian College
- 705.722.5103 | 1.866.224.9232
- apprentice@georgiancollege.ca
Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development – Employment and Training Division
- Barrie: 705.737.1431 | barriesimcoe@ontario.ca
- Muskoka: 705.737.1431 | 1.800.560.3821 | simcoemuskoka@ontario.ca
- Owen Sound: 519.376.5790 | owensound.apprenticeship@ontario.ca
Additional resources
Need financial assistance?
Explore financial supports to help you along the path to becoming an apprentice:
Not sure about your next career move?
Beyond apprenticeships, take our Career Match quiz to find the best career fit for your personality type. You’ll receive a list of Georgian programs you may be well suited to.
Continuing education
Take a single course, or work towards a diploma, certificate or degree—all at a pace that’s right for you. Part-time courses are offered at night or on weekends, or you can opt for online learning.
Looking for credit?
Select from a range of programs, register class-by-class and study on your time. Georgian offers degrees, certificates, diplomas, advanced diplomas and graduate certificates.
Professional development
Looking to advance your career, meet an industry requirement or learn a new skill? We offer a variety of evening and weekend courses to support your ongoing growth.
Study online
Take a course or program online instead as an alternative to in-class. Online courses for a range of subjects are available to part-time and full-time students through OntarioLearn.
