Another 154 Saskatchewan learners will have access to apprenticeship training due to a $400,000 investment by the provincial government.

When combined with the 204 opportunities created in the 2007-08 budget, the total number of registered apprentices in Saskatchewan is forecast to hit 7,000 for the first time in the history of the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission (ATCC).

"This increase in apprenticeship training is indicative of the unprecedented demand - and the tremendous opportunities - that exist for skilled tradespeople right here in Saskatchewan," Advanced Education and Employment Minister Warren McCall said. "As labour market needs have changed, so too have our efforts to meet them, and ATCC is a critical part of that effort. With this additional support, young people have even more reason to pursue a career in Saskatchewan and join our growing labour market."

The new opportunities will be spread across the following in-demand programs: carpenter, electrician, heavy duty equipment mechanic (HDEM), Industrial Mechanic (mill wright), machinist, motor vehicle body repair, plumber, pork production technician, refrigeration mechanic and welder.

"This is a great time to get into the skilled trades," Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission CEO Bob Guthrie said. "Employers are hiring apprentices in record numbers because they need skilled workers and recognize that investing in training enables their business to be more productive and competitive. The provincial government's additional funding for apprenticeship will benefit employers, apprentices and the economy."

Fiscal 2007-08 is forecast to be the fourth consecutive year of record apprenticeship numbers for ATCC. Since the 2005-06 fiscal year, the province has created more than 6,000 new ongoing training opportunities.