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. 

 

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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.

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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. 
 

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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.

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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. 

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Start and Enhance Your Career in the Skilled Trades

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Nova Scotia Construction Sector Council (NSCSC)

The Build Your Skills Learning Hub is your personal hub and all you need to succeed in a career in the construction trades.
  • Career Exploration
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General Labour Market Information

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Government of Nova Scotia

Want to know the labour market demand and outlook for various trades? Click here to explore the latest statistics and data.
  • Jobs and Workforce
Website

Explore Trade and Technology Careers with Skills Competences Canada

Website

SkillsCanada

Explore the various industry sectors to learn more through Skills Canada.
  • Career Exploration
  • Education and Training
Website

Build Force Labour Market Information

Website

Build Force

Explore the current state of Canada's construction sector. Click here for industry insights and trends.
  • Jobs and Workforce
Website

Nova Scotia Construction Sector Council – Industry Outlook

Website

Nova Scotia Construction Sector Council (NSCSC)

Interested in a deeper look at the Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional (ICI) Construction sector? Click here for insights and industry data.
  • Jobs and Workforce
Event

NSCC Institute of Skilled Trades

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Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC)

Learn about the new NSCC Institute of Skilled Trades (IST) and explore more than 30 pre-apprenticeship programs focused on the skilled trades Nova Scotia needs.
  • Career Exploration
  • Education and Training
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