Traditional Apprenticeships

Centennial College, an approved Training Delivery Agent (TDA) recognized by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD), delivers in-class training for apprentices in the high-demand motive power sector. Our programs equip students with the technical skills required to launch rewarding careers in one of Canada’s largest industries—transportation—through the following specialized offerings below.

As of April 2, 2025, all apprentices must be registered with STO through the Skilled Trades Ontario Portal. This portal is used to manage apprentice registration, certification exams, exemption tests, the issuance of Certificates of Apprenticeship, and the selection of Training Delivery Agents (TDAs).

The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) will continue to oversee the administration of OYAP, pre-apprenticeship programs, in-school training and funding (once the apprentice has selected a TDA), as well as the financial management of grants and support programs. For more details on supports available visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/financial-supports-apprentices-and-sponsors. 

Types of Apprenticeship Programs:

1. Traditional apprenticeship is a hands-on learning model that combines on-the-job training with an employer (sponsor) and related classroom instruction at a college. In the motive power sector, this training follows a competency-based format and includes the completion of the Apprenticeship Training Standard Log Book issued by Skilled Trades Ontario (STO). In-class instruction is available in several formats: one day per week (Day Release), two evenings per week (Night Release), or in eight-week blocks (Block Release). It’s recommended to consult with your supervisor before selecting or accepting an option.Depending on the trade, classroom training typically takes two to three years, while the overall apprenticeship journey spans two to five years, based on how quickly competencies are achieved.
2. Modified Apprenticeship Programs (MAPs) at Centennial College offer alternative delivery methods for both in-school learning and on-the-job training. These programs provide more in-depth instruction through extended in-class sessions, often resulting in a shorter overall apprenticeship duration. For more information on available program options, please visit the Modified Apprenticeship Programs (MAPs) page.
3. A pre-apprenticeship program in Ontario is a tuition-free, government-funded initiative that helps individuals develop foundational skills and complete Level 1 in-school training required to start a formal apprenticeship in a skilled trade. These programs boost employability through hands-on experience, academic upgrading, and industry-recognized certifications—often leading to job placements and valuable connections with employers. For more details on available program options, subject to funding approval, please visit the Pre-Apprenticeship page.

Traditional Apprenticeship Programs available at Centennial College. Our programs equip students with the technical skills required to launch rewarding careers in one of Canada’s largest industries—transportation—through the following specialized offerings.

Special Features for Qualified Applicants

• An earn-while-you-learn approach to training.
• Instructors with extensive, current experience in the industry.
• State-of-the-art facilities at the province's largest transportation training centre.
• You may qualify for income support while in school through Employment Insurance Canada benefits or training allowance.
• In-school training is geared to on-the-job experience.

Certification Process

After completing all in-school training at Centennial College, log in to your STO portal to proceed with the next steps. Once your training is approved by Skilled Trades Ontario, call 647-847-3000 to pay the exam fee. You can then book and write your exam using your test authorization letter. A minimum score of 70% is required to achieve certification and, if applicable, the Red Seal endorsement. If you are finishing your apprenticeship, please visit Finish an apprenticeship - Skilled Trades Ontario.

IMPORTANT NOTES:

• Canadian Citizens/Permanent Residents: You cannot apply directly to the College for traditional in-class apprenticeship programs. To be eligible, you must first be employed by a sponsoring employer and registered as an apprentice in Ontario through the Skilled Trades Ontario Portal. For more information on how to get started, please visit Start an apprenticeship – Skilled Trades Ontario.
• International Apprentices (with a 900-series SIN): Typically assigned to temporary residents, individuals can be sponsored and registered with Skilled Trades Ontario (STO); however, you are generally not eligible for in-school apprenticeship training until you obtain permanent resident status. If you require assistance with the permanent residency process, consider visiting Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or consulting with a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer.

Apprenticeship Useful Links:

• Skilled Trades Ontario – Start an Apprenticeship
• Skilled Trades Ontario – Current Apprentices
• Skilled Trades Ontario – Finish an Apprenticeship
• Financial supports for Apprentices and Sponsors