Types of Trades

Provincial and Interprovincial Trades

All designated trades in Manitoba are governed under The Apprenticeship and Certification Act. The regulations under the Act outline the standards and training requirements for specific trades. Provincial trades are those that are designated in Manitoba but are not Interprovincial Red Seal trades. The standards for provincial trades are based on a Provincial Occupational Analysis, which is developed within Manitoba in consultation with industry stakeholders. In addition, the certification examination for the trade is a provincial exam rather than a Red Seal Interprovincial exam.

An interprovincial trade is also known as a Red Seal trade. The Red Seal Program is recognized as the interprovincial standard of excellence in the skilled trades. The program was established more than 50 years ago to provide greater mobility across Canada for skilled workers. Through the program, tradespersons are able to obtain a Red Seal endorsement by successfully completing an interprovincial Red Seal examination. The Red Seal endorsement indicates that the holder has met the national standards in the trade, and this certification is recognized throughout Canada without the need for further examination

Learn more about which trades in Manitoba lead to a Red Seal in the Trade Profiles.

Learn more about the Red Seal Program

Compulsory and Voluntary Trades

There are nine compulsory trades designated in Manitoba, which means that a person must be a registered apprentice or hold a valid Certificate of Qualification in order to work in Manitoba. Holders of a trade certification issued by a regulatory body in another province or territory may also work in Manitoba based on the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA).

Learn more about CFTA.

Learn more about the compulsory trades.

The remaining trades in Manitoba are designated as voluntary. This means that apprenticeship training is optional for these trades and a person does not require a Certification of Qualification to work in Manitoba. A Certificate of Qualification is the credential you receive after successfully completing an apprenticeship program or challenging the exam as a trades qualifier. Once you receive your Certificate of Qualification you are a certified journeyperson in your trade. Certification means you can earn more money, have more job security, and better employment opportunities. It also enables you to pass on your knowledge to the next generation of apprentices through on-the-job supervision.