Canadian Apprenticeship Forum

Building Connections

National Apprenticeship Award: Top Employer

The National Apprenticeship Award: Top Employer recognizes an employer that has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to apprenticeship training in Canada.

This award celebrates organizations that invest in developing skilled talent, support apprentice success, and help strengthen Canada’s apprenticeship system through meaningful engagement and leadership.

The recipient will receive a complimentary delegate registration to the National Apprenticeship Conference, taking place October 4–6, 2026, in Whistler, British Columbia.

Eligibility

Employers may self-nominate or be nominated by a CAF-FCA member organization in good standing or a member of the broader apprenticeship community.

Nominees must demonstrate a strong and sustained commitment to apprenticeship training and workforce development.

Award Criteria

Nominees should demonstrate leadership through one or more of the following:

  • A proven history of training apprentices and supporting their progression to certification
  • A strong record of recruiting, hiring, and retaining apprentices throughout their apprenticeship journey
  • Programs, policies, or practices that support diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in apprenticeship and the skilled trades
  • Active promotion of apprenticeship and skilled trades careers through initiatives such as career fairs, school engagement activities, community partnerships, and workforce development programs
  • Participation in local, regional, or national apprenticeship committees, industry initiatives, or sector leadership activities
  • Demonstrated commitment to creating a positive workplace culture that supports apprentice learning, mentorship, and success

Recognition

The 2026 Top Employer will be recognized at the National Apprenticeship Conference by the Chair of the CAF-FCA Board of Directors.

The recipient will receive:

  • Complimentary registration to the National Apprenticeship Conference
  • A commemorative award plaque
  • Recognition through CAF-FCA’s national communications channels, including social media, website, and newsletter features

Selection Process

Nominations will be reviewed by a CAF-FCA Standing Committee, which will make a recommendation to the CAF-FCA Board of Directors for approval.

Nomination Deadline

Nominations close August 29, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. ET.

Nomination form