For Immediate Release
June 18, 2026
Earlier this year, econext launched its Pre-Apprenticeship Pilot Program (now titled Green Careers Trades Program), an initiative focused on career exploration and development within the skilled trades of the green economy. The program was specifically designed to help newcomers and underemployed individuals explore careers in the trades through immersive, hands-on, work-integrated learning experiences.
During the pilot period, three (3) participants took part in the program, gaining valuable skills and experience with support from employer partners.
econext selected participants for the pilot from Academy Canada and Equiforce, and ensured the participants with New to Construction and FastTrackHer programs had received foundational training and career exploration opportunities before beginning their work placements.
The pilot program focused on providing participants with seven (7) weeks of hands-on workplace experience in the skilled trades. Three (3) part-time placements were offered with local employers including:
The pilot program provided participants with the opportunity to build trade skills, gain industry experience, and develop valuable professional connections while exploring potential career pathways in the trades.
We have received positive feedback from both employers and participants.
When we asked what they liked most about the program, one employer shared:
“That it is fully funded, allowing us to not worry as much when they know very little about carpentry,” and “This is a great way to get more people involved in the trades! We are looking forward to the new program in July.”
Employers also indicated that they would consider hiring participants in the future, with one participant already being offered casual/contract employment following the placement.
One participant reflected on their experience:
“The program gave me hands-on experience with insulation techniques, tool use, and jobsite safety procedures. I went in with basic knowledge and left confident enough to work on live restoration sites. I also earned my NAIMA certification through the program, sponsored by my employer. I would like to become a certified apprentice and also learn the electrical aspects of construction.”
Following the success of the pilot program, econext has launched its first cohort of the Green Careers Trades Program and is now actively accepting applications from both employers and participants. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, July 24, 2026.
The program is set to begin on July 6, 2026, and run until mid-September 2026.
Learn more about the program HERE.
Thank you to the following organizations for their generous support of the program: Skills Canada, Academy Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador Canadian Home Builders’ Association, Newfoundland and Labrador Construction Safety Association, Office to Advance Women Apprentices Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador.
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