NSAA Offering Free Exam Sitting in Eight Red Seal Trades

The Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency is developing apprenticeship training in eight* Red Seal trades. As a first step, and to increase the number of certified journeypersons who can eventually train and mentor new apprentices, the Agency is offering those who have significant experience in the trades the opportunity to write the certification exam at no cost.

*The eight trades that are included are:

Those interested in challenging the exam are required to show proof of significant work experience in the trade and once successful on the certification exam (70%), will achieve certification with a Red Seal endorsement. For the trades listed above, the trade qualifier fee of $740 and the exam fee of $148 is being waived until September 2024.

Application and preparing to challenge the exam

Those who have significant work experience in any of the trades listed above may contact Marc Lamarche, Industry Training Consultant for help with their application to challenge the exam as a Trade Qualifier. There will be exam sittings scheduled throughout the Fall, 2022.

Individuals can prepare to write the exam by visiting the Red Seal website (links provided above). 

Paving the way for new apprentices to enroll

Marjorie Davison, CEO of the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency encourages those who qualify to take advantage of the program and pave the way for apprentices to enroll and participate in the apprenticeship training programs that are currently under development. “This is an opportunity for many people who are currently working in these trades and who have significant experience to challenge the exam and become certified at no cost. Once we have certified journeypersons in place, they can then supervise apprentices and pass on their knowledge and skills.”

Apprenticeship Training

Apprenticeship training is being developed for the eight trades listed above and those interested in becoming certified will soon have the opportunity to register as an apprentice. Stay tuned for more information.