Welder

Explore Careers

A skilled trade requires specific technical knowledge, training, and experience to meet industry standards. In Nova Scotia, more than 70 skilled trades offer rewarding career paths with strong growth and steady demand. These trades are divided into four sector groups: Construction, Industrial/Manufacturing, Motive Power, and Service. 

Discover the Different Trade Sectors

Construction Sector
 

Trades involved in the construction, renovation, maintenance, and repair of residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial projects. 

Focus: Building and maintaining homes, buildings, roads, bridges, and other infrastructure. 

 

Explore Trades

Industrial & Manufacturing Sector

Trades that support manufacturing facilities, industrial operations, resource development, utilities, and large-scale production environments.

Focus: Installing, maintaining, repairing, and operating industrial equipment, machinery, and production systems.

Explore Trades

Motive Power Sector
 

Trades that maintain, diagnose, and repair vehicles, mobile equipment, and engines used for transportation, construction, agriculture, and recreation.

Focus: Keeping vehicles and motored equipment operating safely and efficiently. 
 

Explore Trades

Service Sector
 

Trades focused on providing personal, hospitality, food, and specialized services to individuals, businesses, and communities.

Focus: Delivering skilled services directly to customers and communities, often in hospitality, landscaping, personal care, and food-service environments.

Explore Trades

Benefits of Apprenticeship 

Earn money while you learn

  • Apprentices are paid employees from day one, with wages increasing as they progress. 

Little to no student debt

  • Apprenticeship training is more affordable than many post-secondary options. You may also qualify for financial supports and tax credits.

Job opportunities

  • Skilled trades workers are in demand in Nova Scotia and Canada.  

Mentorship and hands-on training

  • Learn directly from experienced journeypersons while building real-world skills.

Skills to last a lifetime

  • Skilled trades can lead to advanced training, leadership roles, teaching, or starting your own business.

Resources & Supports 

There are many resources to support you in exploring the trades! This is a selection of resources provided by our industry partners. 

Website

Information for Women in Skilled Trades

Website

Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency (NSAA)

We are here to help you succeed and thrive in your chosen career path. Check out the supports, events and partners ready to help you.
  • Career Exploration
  • Education and Training
  • Apprenticeship
Website

Information for African Nova Scotians in Skilled Trades

Website

Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency (NSAA)

There are excellent opportunities for you in the trades and we are here to help you succeed. Check out the supports, events and partners ready to help you.
  • Career Exploration
  • Education and Training
Website

Nova Scotia Works

Website

Nova Scotia Works

Job search resources, Career Planning tools including Explore Careers, Compare Careers, Education and Training. Guides and resources to support career decision making.
  • Career Exploration
  • Apprenticeship
  • Jobs and Workforce
Website

The PREP Academy

Website

We inspire and prepare African Nova Scotian high school students for college, university and beyond. We coach students in Grades 10, 11 and 12 to plan, prepare and pursue college and university – and continue to provide wrap around supports as they navigate their post-secondary education and transition into their chosen careers.
  • Education and Training
  • Career Exploration
Education

Orientation Program for Apprentices

Education

Government of Nova Scotia

This 5-part Orientation is a mandatory mini-course for newly registered apprentices. IWhile it is intended for registered apprentices, anyone who is curious about this post-secondary pathway is welcome to take a look. Registration is not required.
  • Education and Training
  • Career Exploration
Education

Career Pathways

Education

Nova Scotia Construction Sector Council (NSCSC)

Career Pathways help you start your journey with personal analysis, research, and planning. Assess your strengths, explore career options, and create a roadmap to reach your goals.
  • Career Exploration
  • Education and Training
View All Resources