Skilled Trades Ontario is now the official the first point of contact for apprenticeship in the province, shifting from the overseeing government ministry.

As of April 2, 2025, Skilled Trades Ontario (STO) is the first point of contact for apprenticeship registrations, completions, and certifying exams. 

Previously Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD). handled these responsibilities.

“As part of this change, Skilled Trades Ontario will take full responsibility for certifying exams—previously administered by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD). To support apprentices and trades professionals, we are establishing exam locations in key areas across Ontario and will be working closely with training delivery agents to ensure the delivery of offsite exams continues,” writes CEO Candice White in an open letter announcing the shift.

Ultimate authority over apprenticeship in the province remains with the Ministry, as does overisght of The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), Pre-Apprenticeship Training programs in-school training administration and financial oversight for apprenticeship grants and support programs.

But most other functions are now directly administered through STO, which says that simplifying and streamlining the apprenticeship process is behind the shift.

Also noted in White’s letter was that it was establishing exam locations in key areas across Ontario and will be working closely with training delivery agents to ensure the delivery of offsite exams continues.

Key changes:

• Apprenticeship registrations and completions – STO will register training agreements and authorize sponsors and issue Certificates of Apprenticeship.
• Certifying exams – STO will oversee exam scheduling and administration.

• STO will manage apprenticeship registrations and completions, providing a single point of contact for these services.
• When reviewing applications for apprenticeship, STO will also work with applicants to consider pervious in-school and/or workplace experience
• Apprenticeship training agreements will be registered directly with Skilled Trades Ontario.
• Apprentices who complete their training will receive their Certificates of Apprenticeship from STO instead of MLITSD.
• Sponsors will work directly with STO for authorizations and completions, ensuring a more efficient and consistent process.

A number of changes are of particular note to training delivery agents, large sponsors, and employers.

Starting April 2, 2025, each TDA, large sponsor, and employer will be assigned a dedicated Skilled Trades Ontario representative to provide personalized support and guidance.

Dedicated support services for rural and northern Ontario will be implemented in consultation with stakeholders.

MLITSD will still manage in-school training approvals, seat planning, and seat management.

Class invitations will continue to come from MLITSD.

TDAs will keep using the EOIS-APPR system to enroll apprentices and track progress.

STO is continuing the offsite exam pilot with additional exam sites being explored. We look forward to collaborating on this important initiative.

Offsite Exam Support to STO

STO is assuming full responsibility for offsite exam support as part of our expanded role in exam administration.

Effective April 2, 2025, STO will:

Coordinate and oversee offsite exams – including scheduling, proctoring, and accommodations.

Engage with TDAs to ensure a smooth handover and address any operational concerns.

Work with training providers to plan exam dates, confirm locations, and support logistics.

STO maintains that it is working to make the changes as seamless as possible but will be working with the various parties involved to manage the transition.

A key point on examinations is that they will no longer be offered at MLITSD offices.

Exam administration is now by STO and will have on-site exams including:

• Greater Toronto Area (4 locations: 3 in Toronto, 1 in Mississauga)
• London
• Hamilton
• Ottawa
• Barrie
• Sudbury
• Thunder Bay

Additional exam satellite sites are being explored, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.

Registration for exams is now online through Prometric HERE

For questions, STO has implemented extended call centre hours:

 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Monday to Friday

Telephone: 647-847-3000

Toll-free (Ontario only): 1-855-299-0028

Fax: 1-866-398-0368

email: info@skilledtradesontario.ca