Nova Scotia Automotive industry employers have for some time now commented on the need to do a better job at promoting careers within the industry to junior and senior high school students. Current industry statistics reveal that the automotive trades had a total of only 77 new registered apprentices. Industry surveys also indicate a growing number of employment opportunities and an alarming shortage of new entrants. Furthermore, the average age of apprentices in Nova Scotia is 26 years of age, compared to 18- 20 in the U.S. and European countries.

In September, the Department of Education announced the launch of a one-year pilot project designed to develop a Nova Scotia Youth Apprenticeship model. The Youth Apprenticeship Strategy will promote career pathways to in-school and out-of-school youth, and is designed to help young people explore a career in the trades.

Currently, apprenticeship entry requirements include a minimum of grade 12 and must be 19 years old. The Youth Apprenticeship model will enable youth from age 16 and persons with a minimum of grade 10 to be officially registered. Participants will work part-time and/or during the summer, learning hands-on the entry level skills, earn credit towards their academics, and earn hours towards their required hours for a chosen trade.

The Department of Education has engaged the Nova Scotia Automotive Sector Council to participate in a pilot project to develop a model for out-of-school youth. The Council will design, roll–out and evaluate this model in such a way that it can be used for other industries as well.

With this model successful participants will receive industry safety certification, engage in pre-employment and life skills learning, acquire industry entry-level skills and are matched with a sponsoring employer for a twelve week internship. Mentorship will be a key component in the development of their skills.

Automotive Sector Council Project Manager, Corrie Robley says “The Youth Apprenticeship Strategy is an excellent model for industry employers to attract and develop young people from an early age. This will definitely help the industry close the gap between the supply and demand for qualified technicians.”

Special appreciation is extended to the following supportive and funding partners: Department of Education, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada, Trade Industries and A.C.O.A.