1.“What is an Apprenticeship”? Apprenticeship is an agreement between a person who wants to learn a skill (an apprentice) and an employer who needs a skilled worker. The apprentice agrees to work for the employer to receive technical training and gain work experience.
2.“How do I become an Apprentice”?
Apprentices under 21 years of age must have completed high school; those over 21 are accepted as mature candidates. All applicants must be employed in the occupational area that interests them. Application for apprenticeship may be submitted at any time; however, admission to the academic component, offered at the College, is available only in the fall.
3.“What will I be paid?”While you are working an apprentice you will receive between 40 and 90 percent of the current journeyperson’s wages. Often, an apprentice’s wage will increase at each stage of their development.
4.“How long is an apprenticeship?”
An apprenticeship can last from 2-4 years, depending on how many hours of work experience are required to be completed for your chosen trade. Once your training is completed, you must write and pass a certification exam.
5.“How does the NTB meet employer’s needs?”
Developing the skilled workforce that supports economic activity in Bermuda is part of our mandate. We are providing Bermudians with practical skills that can be applied immediately in the workforce.
6.“How does the NTB meet individual’s needs?”
The NTB can help you find and fund your training in many occupations where workers are in high demand in Bermuda. Our vocational programmes meet international requirements- so you can be sure your training meets world standards.
7.“What is a National Certification?”
National Certification is an award that recognizes a person has acquired knowledge, skill, and experience in an occupation and performs the tasks in a satisfactory manner.
8.“Why is the National Certification necessary?”
First, national certification attests that the occupation is important to Bermuda’s economy. Second, it will reduce the risk of harm to a worker or other persons from the improper application of materials and methodology of the occupation. It attests that our workforce is developed to international standards.
9.“How do tradesman, consumers and the public benefit from certification?”
National Certification recognizes that a tradesman has met internationally recognized standards. Therefore, the workforce will perform at a higher level of proficiency and competence.
10.“Which occupations require a National Certification?”
On December 31st, 2009 persons working as automotive service technicians, electricians and welders are required to hold national certificates.
11.“As present, I am not nationally certified. Does this mean that I cannot work in the three occupations while my application for National Certification is being considered?”
You can continue to work in the occupation while your application is being considered.
12.“How long is the National Certificate valid?”
The national certification is valid for a period of five years. Renewals are upon expiration, subject to additional training if required.
13.“The Deadline for all tradesmen working as automotive service technicians, electricians and welders is December 31st, 2009. Is there a penalty for persons working in the designated occupations without a National Certificate?
Yes, there is a penalty for the individual and not the company of a fine up to $10,000.
14.Can I expect more information concerning national certification?
Yes, the NTB has launched a public education and information campaign. The campaign consists of advertisements in the print and electronics media, and pamphlets for auto service technician, electrician and welder tradespersons.
