Khalid Lahroudi Begins a New Career

After arriving in Edmonton from his native Morocco four years ago, Khalid Lahroudi worked as a chef. Despite having 10 years of experience, he says it wasn’t a high-paying job which he says sometimes resulted in financial stress.

Now, as a graduate of NorQuest College’s Apprenticeship Preparation pilot program, he is excited about the range of interesting and well-paid opportunities in Alberta’s plumbing industry.

"The Apprenticeship Prep program gave me the skills I needed to pass the entrance exams and be ready for work in the field," he says. "Now, I have a career to build on."

Launched in January 2012, the program is a partnership between NorQuest College and the Alberta Pipe Trades College. It focuses on attracting, retaining, and preparing young immigrants and Aboriginal adults.

"NorQuest College's Apprenticeship Prep program is a great opportunity for people who may not have the skills or the connections to get into the trades," says Elaine McPhee, chair of literacy and essential skills. "Program graduates are more employable and can look forward to stronger job prospects."

During the four-month academic portion of the program students focus on science, math, reading skills, computer literacy and workplace culture. These essential skills can help them successfully challenge the apprenticeship entrance exam and prepare for work experience in their chosen field.

Upon completion of the academic portion, students whose chosen path is in the pipe trades (welding, plumbing, pipefitting, steamfitting or related trades) enter a 10-week training session at Alberta Pipe Trades College. Students choosing non-pipe trades programming receive placements for the work experience component of the program. As an added bonus, the Local Union 488 will help program graduates find work placements.