Where to Start - designated occupations

What are designated occupations?
A designated occupation is an occupation that has been approved by the Minister of Learning on the recommendation of the specific industry and the Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training Board. Designated occupations have established competencies. When an individual demonstrates the standards of competence, the Minister grants an occupational certificate. Participation in a designated occupation is voluntary and a certificate is not required for an individual to work in the occupation.
Applicants for certification in a designated occupation may achieve the required competencies without following a prescribed process. Some designated occupations may have formal training; some may have only work experience; and some may have a combination of formal training and work experience.
Each designated occupation is as different as the industry that sponsored it. Currently, there are four designated occupations:

• Warehousing
• Plasterer
• Gas Utility Operator
• Construction Craft Labourer

Who identifies the standards of a designated occupation?
The Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training Board, on the recommendation of industry, establishes the standards of competence.

What is the individual responsible for?
The individual is responsible for acquiring the competencies needed for the occupation. The individual is also responsible for paying any tuition fee or associated fees for formal training. Participation in a designated occupation is voluntary. An individual does not have to participate to keep working. Wage rates are not regulated. Once the standards set by industry are demonstrated the individual will be awarded an occupational certificate.

Who pays?
The individual is responsible for paying any tuition fee, classroom fees or other associated fees. Some employers provide financial support with tuition fees and associated costs.

Why would an individual want to become involved in a designated occupation?
For individuals, a designated occupation provides:

• recognition of achieved standards of competency in the form of an occupational certificate
• greater mobility within their occupation and industry
• more opportunities for career development, improved job satisfaction and self-esteem, and increased confidence based on industry established standards.

Why would an employer want to become involved in a designated occupation?
For employers, associations or labour organizations, a designated occupation provides:

• common standards that meet industry's need to recognize a skilled and mobile workforce and that improve the competitiveness of the entire industry
• greater ease in recruiting, promoting and compensating employees because of consistent standards
• an assurance of competence in the occupation
• greater morale through increased employee self-esteem
• the knowledge that staff are fully certified and skilled workers