Institute of Skilled Trades

The Province and Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) have announced the launch of the Institute of Skilled Trades (IST) to provide students and apprentices with modern training and equipment to develop the skills employers need.

The IST and skilled trades training at NSCC will now be guided by an industry-led council that will help modernize and strengthen programming. Its focus is on improving training quality, transforming learning environments and supporting more graduates and apprentices.

The new institute will be supported by a five-year, $25-million investment for new innovative equipment and tools to enhance classrooms, training and workshops across the province, allowing students and apprentices to prepare for current job-site practices and emerging technologies.

The IST will support training across construction, industrial and manufacturing, motive power and service trades. Industry representatives will shape programs to better align with today’s workplace requirements, evolving skill sets and labour market demand.

NSCC, as the primary training provider for the skilled trades, will continue to deliver the training through the IST, and the NSCC board of governors will retain full authority for governance and oversight. Apprenticeship and occupational standards, certification and Red Seal requirements will remain the responsibility of the Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency.

Initial trade and program reviews began in January. Additional reviews are scheduled for priority programming throughout 2026.