Government of Nunavut encourages apprenticeship opportunities with subsidizes for Nunavut students

Press Release

August 1, 2025

Whether you’re finishing school or considering a new career path, apprenticeship offers Nunavummiut the opportunity to gain real skills, earn while learning, and build a strong future in the skilled trades.

The Department of Family Services’ Apprenticeship Certification Unit encourages Nunavummiut to explore careers in the trades through apprenticeship. The Certification Unit supports this journey by registering apprentices, working with employers, subsidizing wages and certifying individuals in designated trades under the Nunavut Apprenticeship Program.

What is Apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship is a structured educational program in the trades that combines paid, on-the-job experience with formal classroom instruction. Under the guidance of a certified journeyperson, apprentices develop the knowledge and skills required to work in a designated trade and progress toward certification[KH1] . Opportunities across Nunavut are growing in high-demand, well-paying trades like electricians, carpenters, plumbers, heavy equipment operators, automotive service technicians, HVAC and oil burner mechanics, powerline technicians, and water and wastewater technicians.

Eligibility to Become an Apprentice

To register as an apprentice under the Nunavut Apprenticeship Program, individuals must:

• Be at least 16 years of age.
• Be a resident of Nunavut.
• Complete the required registration process with the Apprenticeship Certification Unit.

Employer Sponsorship Requirements

To be eligible to sponsor an apprentice, an employer must:

• Be a legally registered and licensed business operating in Nunavut.
• Have been in operation for a minimum of six months.
• Be prepared to provide on-the-job training in accordance with the Nunavut Apprenticeship Program.
• Ensure a certified journeyperson is available to supervise and mentor the apprentice.

Certification Process

Apprentices who complete the required hours of work experience, classroom instruction, and certification examinations are eligible to receive journeyperson certification in their designated trade.

Financial Supports

Wage subsidies and other forms of support may be available to eligible apprentices and employers. Funding amounts vary based on the apprentice’s progress through the program.

The skilled trades offer exciting, in-demand and well-compensated career opportunities across Nunavut.

For more information, visit the Government of Nunavut webpage or contact the Nunavut Apprenticeship Certification Unit at nuapprenticeship@gov.nu.ca.

Contact

Tina Rose
Manager, Communications
Department of Family Services
867-975-5227
fscommunications@gov.nu.ca

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