apprenticeship

The New Brunswick government is reducing barriers for apprenticeship training in the province.

On Friday, the province announced in a news release that it eliminated the tuition fee for apprenticeship-level training.

Premier Susan Holt said in the release the change will allow apprentices to save more than $2000 over the course of their training, making apprenticeship training more accessible and affordable.

“We need more people in good-paying trades jobs to build our homes, schools and hospitals. Removing these costs is one more way we are helping New Brunswickers build a career and a future here at home,” she added.

The tuition cost of technical training is $85 per week. Most apprentices complete four levels of technical training, each lasting about 8 to 10 weeks over the course of their apprenticeship.

Many apprentices also face financial pressures beyond tuition, including reduced income while attending training and additional travel or living costs when programs are offered outside their home community.

The province said more accessible training will also benefit employers and communities by strengthening the workforce and helping meet the growing demand for workers.

“Removing a barrier that could prevent someone from advancing in their career benefits everyone,” said Post Secondary Education and Training Minister Jean-Claude D’Amours. “Housing is one of government’s top priorities, and we are focused on increasing the number of skilled trade workers, given the number of retirements expected in the next 10 years.”