CAF-FCA research addresses the needs, interests and priorities of the apprenticeship community, providing insights that inform the programs, policies and practices of Canadian apprenticeship stakeholders.
Our 2021-2024 research agenda, informed by a member research committee, focuses on four main objectives:
- increased representation of under-represented groups in apprenticeship
- increased participation of youth in skilled trades careers via apprenticeship pathway
- increased engagement of employers in hiring and training apprentices
- test innovative approaches to training delivery
Current Research Projects
BC and AB Return on Training Investment Studies
The costs and benefits of apprenticeship are being investigated in BC and Alberta. The surveys were completed and the analysis is underway. The reports will be available in the summer of 2023.
Improving Pass Rates and Learning Outcomes for Apprentices with Disabilities
CAF-FCA is partnering with the IUOE and SkillPlan to pilot an interactive online tool with apprentices in the heavy equipment and mobile crane operator trades.
Reducing Substance Use Amongst Apprentices
This study was approved by the Health Canada Research Ethics Board.
CAF-FCA is a national, non-profit organization that conducts research in areas important to the apprenticeship community. Apprentice wellbeing and safety is one such topic.
Programs and Initiatives
Supporting Women in Trades (SWIT)
The National Strategy to Support Women in the Trades was developed by tradeswomen, employers, labour representatives, educators and equity representatives from multiple trades and regions to create sustainable and measurable change for women working in the skilled trades. This effort is being led by CAF-FCA complemented by a Supporting Women in Trades Conference which takes place in different regions of Canada biennially.
Apprentices in Canada ePanel
The Apprentices in Canada ePanel is an online survey panel of apprentices from across the country, in multiple trades and sectors. Apprentices share their experiences, opinions and other feedback on issues of interest to the wider apprenticeship community. Members of CAF-FCA gain insights about apprenticeship training from those inside the system, ensuring supports and resources developed are targeted and appropriate
Educator’s Guide to Careers in the Skilled Trades
High school educators provided insights about needed supports to help teachers promote careers in the skilled trades. CAF-FCA is working with Skills/Competences Canada to integrate this feedback into a new Educator’s Guide for distribution and upload to careersintrades.ca
Reports and Other Resources
RESEARCH REPORTS
Our research addresses the needs, interests and priorities of the apprenticeship community, providing insights that inform the programs, policies and practices of Canadian apprenticeship stakeholders.
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