by Ron Tuff 7/27/2011

Acting as an apprentice sponsor is a major benefit for students. Experience has shown that employers, especially small or medium ones, are more likely to get involved in apprenticeship if their first step is limited to offering work placements to an already registered apprentice. Work placements are typically 4 -12 months in duration, but are not a commitment for full time employment. Once an employer recognizes the benefits of apprenticeship first hand, the objective is to officially transfer the sponsorship to that employer, who is then eligible for other government tax credits and benefits.

Apprenticeship registration is an important qualification on a resume. It also provides an opportunity to access the $2,000 Canada Apprenticeship Incentive Grant and the $2,000 Canada Apprenticeship Completion Grant as well as funds to purchase tools. These financial supports during the CODA program along with Canada Employment Insurance during the fourth semester at college all assist the struggling apprentice. Membership in the HSTAC Council provides a voice, leadership and an opportunity to solve common apprenticeship issues, as well as access to talented and committed apprentices to meet future workforce needs. Both the federal and provincial governments provide employers with financial assistance including the $3,000 maximum Ontario Coop Education Tax Credit, the $40,000 maximum Ontario Apprenticeship Training Tax Credit, the $2,000 Ontario Employer Signing Bonus and the $2,000 Canada Apprenticeship Job Creation Tax Credit for Red Seal Trades. So what makes the Hamilton Skilled Trade Apprenticeship Consortium different? Our Mission is to build a better future for our community by advancing the success of employers and skilled trades. Our Vision is to foster world-class training practices that meet the demands for skilled trades in our community. Simply put, to put a process in place today that will provide sufficient highly qualified trades people in tomorrow's workplaces.