• Manufacturers in some provinces (like Ontario) have had to send people to other provinces for training and apprenticeships because local programs have been shut down.
• Companies too frequently see internal training programs and apprenticeships as a cost rather than as an investment.
• Many manufacturers do not make use of the training, apprenticeship, and cooperative programs available to them. Many are not aware of the programs that exist, or how to apply.
• It is difficult for small companies to support training and apprenticeship programs, especially when the worker decides not to pursue the job.
• Trades training and apprenticeship programs adapted to a union environment do not meet the needs of many manufacturers that have a non-unionized workforce.
• It is difficult for any company under cash constraints to dedicate resources to provide adequate supervision for interns and students in cooperative programs.
• Manufacturers are reticent to invest in apprenticeship programs because of the risk that apprentices, once they attain a high level of proficiency or obtain their papers, will leave for more attractive employment opportunities. The problem is especially acute in smaller companies as well as in regions outside major urban areas of the country.
• Many people are not prepared to stay in apprenticeship programs. Drop out rates are high. In some provinces, training programs are offered in colleges that are remote from the companies in which apprentices are employed. And, some apprenticeship programs do not provide the skill sets that manufacturers require.
• Many training and apprenticeship programs appear beneficial initially, but end up with too much paperwork or too many regulatory provisions to deal with.

“There is a lack of commitment to building skills in our own people – and having patience for the unlearning we need to do.”

“Once skilled people leave, they rarely return.”

“Canadians expect that professional training provided by universities will be publicly funded, but when it comes to trades and apprenticeship programs it is industry that has to bear the cost.”

Recommendations for Action

Manufacturers must invest more in building the competencies of their workforce.

Manufacturers must work with labour groups, sector councils, colleges, apprenticeship and other trades training programs to eliminate the stigma attached to the trades or other technical jobs.