About the Conference
The National Apprenticeship Conference brings together employers, policymakers, training providers, unions, and industry leaders from across Canada to explore solutions that strengthen apprenticeship systems and workforce development.
The 2026 theme, Future-Built: Apprenticeship for a Changing Canada, focuses on how apprenticeship can respond to and lead through a period of transformation driven by climate priorities, housing demand, workforce shortages, and the need to advance inclusive and decolonized systems.
We are seeking high-quality, solution-focused session proposals that share practical strategies, innovative models, and measurable impact.
What We’re Looking For
Priority will be given to sessions that:
- Share practical, replicable approaches
- Demonstrate measurable outcomes or lessons learned
- Include diverse perspectives, including trades professionals and apprentices
- Reflect collaboration across sectors
- Engage participants through discussion or interactive formats
Submissions that are primarily promotional in nature will not be considered.
Program Tracks
Please select the track that best aligns with your proposal.
Future-Built Workplaces
Employer innovation, training, and workplace culture
Focus areas may include:
- Employer-led upskilling and reskilling
- Building inclusive and respectful workplaces
- Mentorship, retention, and mental health
- Jobsite readiness for the green economy
Future-Built Systems
Apprenticeship infrastructure, governance, and partnerships
Focus areas may include:
- Federal and provincial coordination
- System modernization and disruption
- Labour mobility and skilled trades immigration
- Funding models and public investment
Future-Built Talent
Preparing and supporting trades professionals
Focus areas may include:
- Skills for the green and digital economy
- Innovative training delivery such as AI, blended, or modular approaches
- Supporting equity-priority groups
- Apprentice progression and completion
Future-Built Policies
Strategy, legislation, and workforce development
Focus areas may include:
- Apprenticeship as an economic development strategy
- Workforce planning tied to housing and infrastructure
- Data and labour market information
- Indigenous-led policy and system transformation
Submission deadline is May 5.