Vocational Qualification

Vocational qualification programs are designed to foster manpower development and compliance with the requirements for engaging in certain regulated activities. Such programs allow workers to develop their skills and achieve full proficiency in their trades in the workplace. 

Vocational qualification programs take into account the real-life labour market situation and are carried out in collaboration with industry representatives, such as sectoral workforce committees or the Régie du bâtiment du Québec.

There are 2 types of vocational qualification programs: compulsory qualification programs and voluntary qualification programs. 

Compulsory qualification

Under certain laws or regulations, workers may have to be qualified to practise regulated trades. For example, they have to hold an apprenticeship card or a certificate of qualification to work in the following fields:

  • Electricity
  • Pipe fitting
  • Mechanical conveyor systems mechanics 
  • Gas
  • Stationary engine mechanics
  • Halocarbons
  • Pressure vessel welding
  • Wastewater treatment

The regulations governing regulated trades are aimed at protecting public health.

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Voluntary qualification

Voluntary qualification applies to non-regulated trades. Participation in voluntary qualification programs is optional.

Voluntary qualification programs allow workers to develop their skills in a given trade and obtain a certificate of qualification or an attestation of competency.

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