The provincial government has eliminated the tuition fee for apprenticeship-level training.
"Apprentices can now complete their technical training without paying tuition, saving the average apprentice about $2,720 over the course of their training," said Premier Susan Holt. "That means more New Brunswickers can choose a career in the skilled trades without having to put as much pressure on their household budget. We need more people in good-paying trades jobs to build our homes, schools and hospitals. Removing this cost is one more way we are helping New Brunswickers build a career and a future right here at home."
Eliminating tuition fees makes apprenticeship training more accessible and affordable, helping more people gain the practical skills and credentials they need to build successful careers. The training also benefits employers and communities by strengthening the workforce and helping meet the growing demand for workers.
"Removing a barrier that could prevent someone from advancing in their career benefits everyone," said Post-Secondary Education and Training Minister Jean-Claude D'Amours. "Housing is one of government's top priorities, and we are focused on increasing the number of skilled trade workers, given the number of retirements expected in the next 10 years."
The tuition cost of technical training is $85 per week. Most apprentices complete four levels of technical training, each lasting about eight to 10 weeks over the course of their apprenticeship.
"Many of our apprentices are balancing work, training and family responsibilities while building their careers," said Justin Beaulieu, president and CEO of Beaulieu Plumbing & Mechanical. "Eliminating tuition fees removes one more obstacle and shows that New Brunswick is committed to supporting the next generation of skilled trades professionals. As an employer, I'm proud to see this investment in the people who will help build our province's future."
Many apprentices already have other financial pressures, besides tuition; these include reduced income while training, as well as travel or living expenses if the training is offered outside their community.
"It's great news that tuition for apprenticeship training is being waived," said Carter Stright, a truck and transport mechanic apprentice. "It is going to be much easier moving forward, knowing I won't have the burden of that financial cost hanging over me during my training. It will relieve a lot of pressure for all of us as apprentices."
