Through funding from the Future Skills Centre, CAF-FCA is piloting an online tool with apprentices. Project objectives include understanding apprentice experiences with a video and image logging tool and engaging industry in a dialogue about the way on-the-job training is documented. The pilot trades include electrical, carpentry, plumbing and welding. Red Seal standards have been integrated into the tool for these four trades. Ontario and Quebec standards have also been integrated into the resource.

Industry workshops were hosted for each of the trades in the pilot giving industry a direct opportunity to provide input into the project. Apprentices are uploading videos and photos of their skills achievements and completing questionnaires and all participant will be asked to share their experiences and perspectives through interviews at the end of the pilot. Experiences with the tool are being documented will be summarized into a research report. For more information, visit here.

IUOE members from across Canada are working with CAF-FCA to develop a best practices model for helping apprentices to pass the certification examination through the Government of Canada’s Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP). From 2021 to 2025, CAF-FCA will partner with the IUOE to pilot an interactive online tool with apprentices in heavy equipment operator and mobile crane operator, track and report on outcomes and communicate results.
Project objectives include:

• Increase exam pass rates for apprentices, including those with learning disabilities, by providing access to an online tool
• Share any positive apprentice outcomes based upon the research data and, if the pilot is successful, encourage other unions and employers to adopt exam preparation best practices
• Help apprentices with disabilities complete their training
  The online tool will supplement and build upon what is covered by the IUOE at technical training.

Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) in partnership with the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF) has launched a two and a half year project funded by the Government of Canada as part of the Skilled Trades Awareness and Readiness (STAR) Program. The Inclusive Pre-Apprenticeship Pathways Program will help Canadians, and particularly those facing barriers to education, access pre-apprenticeship training adapted to support their success.