February 21, 2014 – The provincial government is investing $1 million over three years to expand the New Brunswick Teen Apprentice Program, which gives high school students early training and employment in the skilled trades.

“This year the program will expand to 28 high schools across New Brunswick and continue to grow each of the following two years,” said Jody Carr, post-secondary education, training and labour minister. “We are focused on creating jobs and keeping our young workers—one of our most valuable resources—here at home.”

The program connects employers with potential apprentices, enabling high school students to get a jump-start on a career in the skilled trades. The program allows students starting in Grade 10 to experience a trade; gain three years of summer employment; earn credits toward graduation; and complete the first level of a formal apprenticeship.

“This is our first year expanding the program outside the Saint John and Sussex areas, and we are excited to be growing it in all parts of the province, such as Oromocto, Fredericton and Nackawic,” said Christina Taylor, executive director of the program.

In 2013, the program grew to 30 students with 17 employers providing hands-on work opportunities in 18 trades, reports the province. In 2014, it will expand to more communities, with more than 70 students working for 30 employers in more than 20 trades.

Applications for students will be accepted in March. Interested students and employers are encouraged to contact the program directly.