Polytechnics Canada Policy Analyst Hannah Hunter argues that Canada must address the barriers to apprenticeship completion if the country is to retain apprentices in the skilled trades. Hunter explains that many government officials tout the career opportunities available in the skilled trades, but that training timelines and completion present a barrier to these careers. She writes that apprentices may encounter personal and financial challenges that affect their progression and often face delays with accessing in-class training, due to limited space, equipment, and instructors. If these issues are left unresolved, Hunter concludes that “Ottawa’s ambitions to Build Canada Strong — however well intentioned — will fall flat.”
