The Canadian Council of Directors of Apprenticeship Harmonization Initiative was initiated in 2014. It is overseen by the Canadian Council of Directors of Apprenticeship, the entity responsible for the Red Seal Program, and Employment and Social Development Canada. This initiative has multiple phases with the goal to harmonize the following trades:
Phase 1 – (2016) completed
- Carpenter
- Mobile Crane Operator
- Mobile Crane Operator (Hydraulic)
- Metal Fabricator (Fitter)
- Welder
- Heavy Duty Equipment Technician
- Tower Crane Operator
- Ironworker (Generalist)
- Ironworker (Reinforcing)
- Ironworker (Structural/Ornamental)
Phase 2 – (2017) completed
- Automotive Service Technician
- Truck and Transport Mechanic
- Agricultural Equipment Technician
- Construction Electrician
- Industrial Electrician
- Industrial Mechanic (Millwright)
- Plumber
- Steamfitter/Pipefitter
Phase 3 – (2018) completed
- Boilermaker
- Sprinkler Fitter
- Concrete Finisher
- Landscape Horticulturist
- Sheet Metal Worker
Phase 4 – (2019) completed
- Rig Technician
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic
- Insulator (Heat and Frost)
- Machinist
- Tool and Die Maker
Phase 5 – (2020) completed
- Cook
- Powerline Technician
- Auto Body and Collision Technician
- Automotive Refinishing Technician
- Hairstylist
Phase 6 – (2021) completed
- Bricklayer
- Glazier
- Instrumentation and Control Technician
- Motorcycle Mechanic
- Partsperson
- Roofer
Phase 7 – (2022) completed
- Cabinetmaker
- Lather
- Recreation Vehicle Service Technician
Phase 8 – (2023) completed
- Painter and Decorator
- Transport Trailer Technician
Phase 9 – (2024) ongoing
- Baker
- Floorcovering Installer
- Tilesetter
Phase 10 – (2025) ongoing
- Drywall Finisher and Plasterer
- Construction Craft Worker
- Gasfitter A
- Gasfitter B
WHAT IS ALIGNED: the official trade name, trade definitions, total in-school and on-the-job training hours required, and the sequencing of technical training courses. Harmonization involves consultations with industry stakeholders in each province/territory who are connected to each trade. Consultation takes the form of in-person meetings, webinars, email correspondence and website updates. Having these 42 Red Seal trades harmonized will improve labour and apprentice mobility across the country.