Trades
Information you need to know to work in a Trade occupation
Who is responsible for certifying Tradespeople in Alberta?
Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training is responsible for certifying Tradespeople in Alberta.
What are the requirements for internationally educated Tradespeople?
The certification requirements for trades occupations vary. Some trades have compulsory certification, while other trades have optional certification. The Compulsory Certification Trades web page provides a list of trades that have compulsory certification. The Optional Certification Trades and Occupations web page provides a list of trades that have optional certification.
The Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training Trades & Occupations website page outlines the requirements to work in Alberta.
Internationally educated tradespeople who can demonstrate the skills and meet the required work experience criteria for their trade may be eligible for the Qualification Certificate Program.
To learn more about your trade and the work experience requirement for certification, visit the Trades & Occupations page on the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training website.
What training programs are available in Alberta for internationally educated Tradespeople?
There are a number of trades training programs in Alberta specifically targeted to immigrants that are provided by the following organizations:
- Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS).
- CCIS offers training programs in a number of trades. Check their website for specific trades offered.
- Momentum offers the Trades Training for Immigrants and Indigenous Peoples Program, which is a six-month pre-apprenticeship program. Check their website for specific trades offered.
What are the accepted English language proficiency tests and where can I be tested?
There are no formal English requirements for Tradespeople, however, they must have a high level of English in the areas of reading, writing, speaking and listening skills in order to be successful in the profession. To learn more about where to take an English language proficiency test in Alberta, visit English Language Proficiency Tests and Locations.
What resources and supports are available for internationally educated Tradespeople?
Directions for Immigrants offers workplace communication groups to help you integrate into the Canadian work environment. The Clear Communication for Business workplace communication group is designed to help internationally educated professional fine-tune their communication skills with colleagues, supervisors, and clients. In one week, you will learn through role-play and scenarios the nuances and expectations of the Canadian business culture. Topics include active listening, assertiveness, conflict resolution, problem solving, and teamwork. Visit Clear Communication for Business for more information.
Where can I find more information about Trades occupations, salary information, and employment options?
Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training
Additional Occupational Information
For more information on occupations, duties and wages, visit:
