Employers Encouraged to Hire Apprentices
A study on the return on investment for apprenticeship shows that for every dollar an employer invests in an apprentice, they make a net return of up $1.38.
The study was done by the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum. It was presented in Halifax today, March 7, at a breakfast designed to encourage more employers to hire apprentices.
"This research study surveyed employers representing 15 different trades across the country," said Allison Rougeau, executive director of the Canadian Apprenticeship Forum. "We are sharing this information with employers from across the country to make a positive business case for apprenticeship, and the hiring of apprentices."
The Halifax event was attended by government representatives, industry members and employers working in the cooking, autobody and automotive trades.
"In Nova Scotia, we have traditionally seen a low number of apprentices in the cooking and autobody trades because we do not have enough mentors," said Education Minister Karen Casey. "We are hoping the results of this study show employers that being a mentor not only brings personal rewards, it can bring economic rewards as well."
During the event, trades employers spoke about how hiring apprentices enhances business performance by increasing productivity and decreasing turnover.
"At Wolf Collision, we have a mentoring program set up to train future technicians in the collision repair industry, and the quality of workmanship from the apprentices is great," said Peter Wolf, president and owner of Wolf Collision. "I personally feel that the training received through apprenticeship provides the student with the skills needed to succeed in this industry."
The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum is holding events for employers across the country in the coming months. Participants will have the opportunity to share perspectives with other employers and discuss apprenticeship training as a competitive advantage. A report summarizing findings will be available in the fall.