Training and Education

As new power demands continue to grow, the provincial government of Saskatchewan has started funding IBEW-led apprenticeships, underscoring the union’s proven excellence and ability to meet the moment.

In September 2024, the government of Saskatchewan signed a memorandum of understanding and a letter of intent with the IBEW to expand construction electrician and powerline technician apprenticeship training. Early results of the training program have been extremely positive.

“This is a huge deal for the IBEW in Western Canada,” First District International Vice President Russ Shewchuk said. “We have been working hard to secure this relationship with the Saskatchewan government, and that relationship is now bearing fruit and employing Saskatchewan workers who will be able to meet the province’s increasing power needs.”

Regina Local 2038 has used its funds to purchase equipment for its training program, which is open to both union and nonunion workers. While only on its third cohort, it’s already proving that IBEW training is well worth the investment. The first and second classes of apprentices had a success rate of 100%, passing with an average grade of 85%.

“It’s an early harbinger that bodes well for the future,” Local 2038 Business Manager Christopher Unser said. “While it’s a small sample size (32 students have participated so far), it reflects the benefits of smaller class sizes and increased instructional time. I’ve described it as an artisan bakery versus a large supermarket.”

The initial feedback from the apprentices similarly demonstrated that the IBEW model is a tried-and-true learning approach.

“Feedback was overwhelmingly positive,” Unser said. “They valued the small class size and access to instructors with decades of experience, as well as the perks that come with the electrician-focused environment built specifically for them.”

Prior to the IBEW partnership with the province, electrical trades training was done primarily through community colleges without a standardized curriculum.

“This is the first time we have had a standardized core curriculum, and it is only because of the link we have between the training centers across Canada that lets it happen,” IBEW First District International Representative Chris Taran said.

Unser noted that the real measure of success will be reflected in these apprentices’ long-term careers, making retention just as important as recruitment.

“By improving working conditions across all trades and fostering an environment that values longevity, sustainability and respect for skilled workers, we can better retain those who have invested the time and effort to develop their skills,” Unser said. “If we get retention right, the peaks and valleys of recruitment cycles should begin to level out, resulting in a more stable, experienced and resilient workforce.”

After the early success of Local 2038’s program, Unser said he’s cautiously optimistic about the future.

“We’re just getting started and I’m cautious about bold claims, but our organization has a century-long history of mentoring and training apprentices. We’re proud to continue that legacy,” Unser said.

Taran and Unser said a big part of this success is due to the relationship the IBEW has cultivated with the provincial government, which is currently led by the conservative-leaning Saskatchewan Party.

“We’re not focused on championing any individual political party but on getting the job done with the tools and resources we have,” Unser said. “This may be a pilot project of sorts, but the potential for future IBEW campuses across Canada is significant. The proof will be in the success of these apprentices.”

Taran said it’s good to see the government listening and trying to help with outcomes for apprenticeships.

“It’s nice to see the government have a change of heart,” Taran said. “It’s a good success story. The IBEW has broken the mold.”