Frequently Asked Questions about your Apprenticeship

What's going on with ITAC?

ITAC has been shutdown and the new Industry Training Centre (ITC) has taken over. This means that there are no longer any field counselors to assist apprentices or those wishing to start an apprenticeship. The ITC does however have a toll-free number 1-866-660-6011 where you can get some help with apprenticeship & certification related matters.

Why do I have to pay tuition fees?

Tuition fees were brought in due to the Provincial Government reducing funding to the Industry Training Commission. As a result of the decrease in funding to the ITC, and subsequent reduction in payments to training schools this shortfall must be made up by apprentices.

When are tuition fees due?

Tuition fees must be received at least 30 days prior to your class start date to guarantee you will have a seat when you arrive on the first day of class. There are many people on waiting lists to get into these classes.

Will Local Union 516 pay or reimburse me for my tuition fees?

Training funds from the JATC are primarily for upgrading courses, however at a meeting of unionized employers held in June it was decided that the JATC will contribute towards apprentice tuition fees for those apprentices attending the Joint Apprentice Refrigeration Training School Ltd. (JARTS). The contributions approved at the meeting was 50% of tuition fees payable by apprentices will be picked up by the JATC.

Are student loans available to apprentices to cover tuition fees?

No, unfortunately not.

Will tuition fees be Income Tax deductible?

Yes, Revenue Canada does have provisions for claiming tuition fees as a deduction.

Can I reschedule my school assignment to give myself more time to save up some money?

It is highly recommended that you first of all insure that you are scheduled to attend apprenticeship technical training, and then make every effort to attend as scheduled. Many currently scheduled apprenticeship classes are full and may have people on a waiting list to get in should someone be removed for the class.

Who can I talk call to voice my concerns/displeasure with having to pay tuition fees?

Call or better yet, write your MLA and voice your concerns, it's the only way to get through to the Provincial Government. ITC won't be able to help as they are only passing down what has been dealt to them.

Want more information on apprenticeship & Training?

Try the JARTS (Joint Apprenticeship Refrigeration Training School Ltd.) Website www.jarts.bc.ca