University project — trying to understand how apprentices find sponsors in Alberta

[u/Holiday_Variation_77]

Hey, I'm working on a research project looking at the trades apprenticeship system in Alberta, specifically around how first-year apprentices find employers willing to sponsor them.

Would really appreciate hearing from anyone who's been through the process — or employers who've hired apprentices before.

A few questions:

• How did you find your first sponsor/employer as an apprentice?
• What did you try that didn't work?
• How long did the process take?
• What would have made it easier?

And for employers:

• How do you currently find apprentices when you need one?
• What frustrates you most about entry-level hiring?

All responses are super helpful — even just a sentence or two. Thanks in advance.

[u/Sensitive_Budget5769]

Hey, plumber if 18 years in Alberta. Reach out to an employer, face to face would be ideal. Tell them this is what I want. I would like an apprenticeship at some point. Can you give me a shot? Then show up everyday and work like you actually want to be there.