Designated skilled trades are categorized as voluntary or compulsory. When a trade is first designated, it is classified as voluntary, meaning that workers do not need to be registered apprentices or certified journeypersons in order to work in that trade. On the other hand, compulsory trades require workers to have a Certificate of Qualification or be a registered apprentice with the Apprenticeship and Trades Certification Division (ATCD). These trades typically involve work where public or employee safety could be at risk.

A group or association can formally request that an occupation become designated as a skilled trade.

How to Request a Trade Designation or Change a Trade Designation

To request that an occupation become designated as a skilled trade, or to request a change in the designation of a skilled trade, submit an Atlantic Application for the Designation of Voluntary and Compulsory Trades to ATCD.

Application Considerations:

When reviewing an application, ATCD will consider:

• Job opportunities and challenges for the occupation or trade in the next 5 years.
• Skills and knowledge required to work in the occupation or trade, and industry’s interest in training for or recognizing these skills and knowledge.
• Career value of the occupation or trade.
• Amount of overlap with existing trades or occupations, including potential duplication in existing training or certifications in another trade or occupation.
• Extent of industry/stakeholder support for the designation.
• Need for authorization or approval by another government department or agency.
• Need for apprenticeship training, and viability based on estimated enrolment.
• Impact of the designation on consumers, environmental protection, and public health and safety.

What Happens Next?

ATCD will compile a formal written report for the Provincial Apprenticeship and Certification Board (PACB). Applicants may be asked to present and discuss the application, and other stakeholders may be asked to appear or may request an opportunity to present their views as well. The PACB will review the application, make a final decision, and inform the applicant of the decision in writing.

Once an occupation is designated as a skilled trade, ATCD will establish a Provincial Trade Advisory Committee and develop curriculum, examinations, a logbook and other necessary documents for training in the trade.

For more information, email app@gov.nl.ca