The ARISE Project
Helping apprentices across Ontario succeed.
The ARISE Project
Helping apprentices across Ontario succeed.
About the Project
ARISE: Apprenticeship Readiness Inventory Skills Evaluation
Breaking Barriers to Success in the Skilled Trades
Across Ontario, many skilled trades apprentices struggle to complete their training, not because they lack talent or drive, but because they haven’t had access to the foundational skills support they need. For some, challenges with literacy, numeracy, or exam preparation stall progress. Others may not even be aware that these gaps are holding them back until they fail a level or hit a wall with their final exam.
Why ARISE Matters
The ARISE Project (Apprenticeship Readiness Inventory Evaluation Survey) was created to identify and address the hidden learning barriers that prevent apprentices from progressing or staying in the trades. These roadblocks don’t just affect individuals - they impact Ontario’s skilled trades workforce, reducing the number of qualified professionals who can support the next generation.
What We’re Doing
We are assessing the foundational skills challenges faced by apprentices and implementing targeted, practical solutions to help them move forward. By better supporting their learning, we aim to increase apprenticeship completion, boost retention, and strengthen the skilled trades across the province.
Contact Vito Mendonca at vito@llsc.on.ca for more information.
WHO THIS SUPPORTS
This project enagages a variety of stakeholders; employers, those on the apprenticeship journey and Literacy Basics Skills Providers.
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01. FAQs
I’m Interested/I Am an Apprentice
Apprenticeship support is available. Whether you're working toward your academic credentials, preparing for level tests, or facing challenges with your final exam, we're here to help. Browse the frequently asked questions below for more information, or contact Vito directly for personalized support. Contact Vito Mendonca at vito@llsc.on.ca for more information.
1. I know what trade I want to pursue, but I don’t know how to get started. Can I get help?
A. Yes, and that’s a great first step. Whether you’re unsure about registration, finding an employer, or meeting the requirements, ARISE staff can help you understand the process and take the next steps. Connect with Vito to begin your journey.
2. I don’t have the education I need to sign with an employer (like Grade 10, Grade 12, or an equivalent). What should I do?
A. There are different ways to complete the education needed for apprenticeship, depending on what works best for you. You don’t have to figure it out alone — our ARISE staff can help you explore flexible options that fit your goals and learning needs. Contact Vito to get started.
3. I was educated outside of Canada. How can I find out if my credentials are recognized in Ontario?
A. Understanding how your international education fits into Ontario’s apprenticeship system can be confusing — but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Our ARISE staff can guide you through the process and help you connect with community resources that support credential recognition. Contact Vito to get started.
4. I’ve started an apprenticeship but I’m thinking about switching trades. Can I talk to someone about it?
A. Yes, absolutely. It’s okay to rethink your path — many people do. ARISE staff can help you explore your options and figure out what makes the most sense for you. Reach out to Vito to begin the conversation.
5. Is there free help available to improve my reading, writing, math, or digital skills?
A. Yes. If you’ve struggled with learning in the past, you’re not alone — and support is available. Our ARISE staff can help you find learning strategies and resources that match your needs, so you feel more confident going into your training. Contact Vito to get started.
6. I had trouble learning in school and I’m worried about block training. Can I get help?
A. Yes. If you’ve struggled with learning in the past, you’re not alone — and support is available. Our ARISE staff can help you find learning strategies and resources that match your needs, so you feel more confident going into your training. Contact Vito to get started.
7. I get anxious about writing tests and exams. Can I get support?
A. Definitely. Many apprentices feel the same way, and there are strategies and supports that can help. ARISE staff can work with you to build your confidence and connect you with the right resources. Reach out to Vito when you're ready.
8. I’m having a hard time balancing work, school, and life. Is there support available?
A. Yes. Managing everything at once can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. ARISE staff can help you explore strategies that work for you and guide you to community resources that offer practical support. Contact Vito to start the conversation.
Contact Vito Mendonca at vito@llsc.on.ca
ARISE: Helping Apprentices Across Ontario Succeed
02. FAQs
I Hire Apprentices/I am an Employer
The ARISE project isn’t just about helping apprentices- it’s about supporting employers too. By addressing foundational skill gaps, we aim to reduce apprenticeship drop-off rates and ensure a stronger, more capable workforce. Employers benefit from better-prepared apprentices who are more likely to complete their training and become long-term contributors to the skilled trades.
1. Some of my apprentices are struggling with math. Where can they get help?
A. Many apprentices need extra support with math — and help is available. We can connect your apprentices with free, tailored programs that build the skills they need to succeed. Contact Vito to learn more and take the first step toward getting them the support they need.
2. One of my apprentices failed their final exam. What support is available?
A. That can be discouraging, but there are resources to help them prepare to rewrite. We’ll work with you to explore options that are a good fit for your apprentice’s learning style and goals. Reach out to Vito to get started.
3. One of my apprentices is having trouble with learning. How can I help them succeed?
A. Every apprentice learns differently. We can help you learn about available resources and how to get started with supports that match their needs. Contact Vito to begin the process.
4. How can I help my apprentices prepare for in-class training or exams?
A. Preparation makes a big difference. We can connect you with prep tools, learning strategies, and support programs to help your apprentices feel ready. Contact Vito to begin the conversation.
5. I want to better support my apprentices, but I’m not sure what resources are out there. Where should I start?
A. You don’t have to figure it out alone. Let’s start the conversation — we can help you identify tools, programs, and strategies to support your apprentices’ learning and success. Contact Vito to begin.
Contact Vito Mendonca at vito@llsc.on.ca
23% Employer ROI in under a year
03. FAQs
I Support Upskilling/I am an Literacy Basics Skills Provider
LBS providers are essential partners in the ARISE project. These organizations deliver the academic upgrading and skills training that support apprentices and adults across Ontario. The FAQs below outline how we’ll work together to connect learners with the right supports at the right time.
1. I’m not an expert in apprenticeship. Where can I find resources to support learners?
A. You don’t need to be an expert to make a difference. We are curating tools and resources designed to support you.
2. I’d like to learn more about the data being collected in this project. Where can I find it?
A. You can explore project data and insights in the “Apprenticeship by the Numbers” section of our website. It’s a great way to understand the impact and trends we’re seeing. Coming soon!
3. I’m working with an apprentice who seems to be struggling with learning. Can I get support through this project?
A. Yes. We’re here to work with you — not replace your efforts. The ARISE project can offer additional support and help you identify resources that meet the learner’s needs. Contact Vito to collaborate.
4. I’d like to work more closely with apprenticeship programs in my area. Can this project help?
A. Absolutely. We can help you start the conversation and navigate opportunities to collaborate with local apprenticeship partners. Contact Vito Mendonca at vito@llsc.on.ca for more.
5. Will this project develop new tasks or milestones that I can use to support learners?
A. Yes. We’re developing new tools and resources to support learners in LBS programs. Contact Vito to find out what’s available now and what’s coming soon.
Contact Vito Mendonca at vito@llsc.on.ca
25%+ increase in employment or schooling outcomes
04. Data Diving
Apprenticeship by the Numbers
This project is instrumental in data gathering around apprenticeship pathway navigation, progress, successes and exits. We will share our information as we gather more. In the meantime, some statistics to consider are listed below.
Apprenticeship By The Numbers
89,000
Ontario needs 89,000 new journeypersons by 2031
The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum projects Ontario requires 88,960 new certified journeypersons over the next decade, requiring around 296,350 new apprentice registrations
Sources: 1a
Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) programs support apprentices,
Ontario LBS providers emphasize that many prospective apprentices underestimate the academic demands of skilled trades and require foundational skills before entering programs .
Literacy challenges hinder apprenticeship success.
A. You can explore project data and insights in the “Apprenticeship by the Numbers” section of our website. It’s a great way to understand the impact and trends we’re seeing. Coming soonA 2013 report noted that low math, literacy, and test‑taking skills pose barriers to completing apprenticeships and passing qualification exams in Ontario. Source: 3
Ontario lags in apprenticeship share
Despite being home to 40% of Canada's population, Ontario accounts for less than 25% of all apprenticeship registrations in Canada. Source: 4
35% of apprentices cite unclear application process as barrier.
Among apprentices aged 15–34 entering trades, 35% reported confusion about how to apply, highlighting systemic barriers in the early stage. Source: 5
Certified apprentices earn 25% more per hour
A Statistics Canada study using data from the 2007 National Apprenticeship Survey found that apprentices who complete their apprenticeship and obtain certification earn about 22 log points (~25%) higher hourly wages compared to those who neither complete nor certify. That’s a substantial income advantage tied directly to certification which literacy and academic support help achieve. Source: 6
Contact Vito Mendonca at vito@llsc.on.ca
