Global Lessons, Local Impact: Innovations in International Apprenticeship Systems
Call for Speakers
Virtual Symposium | May 20, 2026
Apprenticeship systems around the world are evolving to meet changing labour-market demands, address equity gaps, and improve learner outcomes. Countries such as Germany, Switzerland, Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States are testing new governance models, employer-led training approaches, innovative assessment methods, and inclusive recruitment strategies.
The Global Lessons, Local Impact Virtual Symposium, hosted by the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum (CAF-FCA), will bring together international experts, policymakers, employers, educators, and system leaders to explore how apprenticeship systems are structured globally — and how successful innovations can be adapted within Canada’s federal–provincial context.
CAF-FCA is inviting speakers and panelists to share practical insights, applied research, and lived experience that can inform the future of apprenticeship in Canada.
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking proposals that align with one or more of the following theme areas:
Employer Engagement in Apprenticeship Systems
Industry leadership models, employer incentives, governance structures, and employer-driven training approaches.
Recruiting Underrepresented Groups into Apprenticeship
Strategies to recruit and support women, Indigenous Peoples, racialized communities, newcomers, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented or vulnerable populations.
Improving Apprenticeship Completion and Retention
Learner supports, retention strategies, employer practices, and system-level design improvements.
Alternative Assessment & Certification Approaches
Competency-based assessment, modular certification, digital or practical testing methods, and innovative credentialing models.
About the Symposium
This virtual event is designed to move beyond theory and spotlight transferable practices that can inform:
- Canadian policy development
- Program and system design
- Employer action and workforce planning
Selected speakers will contribute to a solutions-focused discussion and may also help shape post-event knowledge products, including a national insight paper.
Presentation Formats
Applicants may be considered for one or more of the following roles:
- Panel Participant (international or Canadian panels)
- Concurrent Session Presenter (30–45 minutes, including discussion)
Concurrent sessions will take place within a dedicated 1-hour block during the virtual symposium.
Who Should Apply
We welcome applications from:
- Employers and industry leaders
- Policymakers and system administrators
- Educators and training providers
- Researchers and evaluators
- Community-based and equity-focused organizations
Experience presenting to international or policy-focused audiences is an asset, but not required.
Equity, Inclusion & Accessibility
CAF-FCA is committed to inclusive participation and diverse perspectives. We strongly encourage proposals that address equity, inclusion, and accessibility within apprenticeship systems.
Accessibility accommodations are available for speakers and participants, upon request.
How to Apply
Interested speakers are invited to submit a proposal outlining their experience, topic area, and proposed contribution.
Submission Deadline: March 15, 2026
Applications will be reviewed based on relevance, innovation, diversity of perspectives, and alignment with symposium objectives. Selected speakers will be contacted with next steps and session details.
Questions?
Please contact us at info@caf-fca.org