The Government of the Northwest Territories has updated the Northwest Territories Trades Entrance Requirements to create new opportunities for Northerners to pursue a career in the trades.
Under the updated requirements, individuals with a high school diploma are now eligible to enter the trades, establishing a fourth pathway to meet entrance requirements. This change was reviewed and recommended by the Apprenticeship, Trade and Occupation Certification Board, and reflects the government’s commitment to build a strong economic foundation by growing and enhancing the Northern workforce.
The four options for meeting the Trades Entrance Requirements are now:
- Passing the trades entrance exam with a mark of 70% or higher;
- Meeting the Secondary School course requirements;
- Passing all five of the High School Equivalency Credentials (General Education Diploma or Canadian Adult Education Credential); or
- Holding a Northwest Territories Secondary School Graduation Diploma.
The updates also align with the Northwest Territories’ transition to a new curriculum modeled after British Columbia and recognize the new Canadian Adult Education Credential, which replaced the General Education Diploma in 2024. While the General Education Diploma remains valid, the updated requirements now reflect that the Canadian Adult Education Credential is accepted going forward.
Quote
“Expanding pathways to the skilled trades is a win for our residents and our economy. Skilled tradespeople are the backbone of strong, sustainable communities, and their work drives a growing economy. By creating more options for Northerners to enter the trades, we are empowering Northerners with new opportunities to secure meaningful jobs and contribute to a prosperous Northwest Territories.”
- Caitlin Cleveland, Minister of Education, Culture and Employment
Quick Facts
- Previously, there were three options for prospective apprentices to gain entrance to the trades: passing the trades entrance exam with a mark of 70% or higher; completing specific high school courses; or passing all five General Education Diploma tests.
Related Links
- Trades Entrance Requirements
- Thinking about a career in the Trades?
- Schools North Apprenticeship Program
For media requests, please contact:
Briony Grabke
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Department of Education, Culture and Employment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Briony_Grabke@gov.nt.ca
867-767-9352 ext. 71073