In the trades, as in most industries, a frustrating paradox exists: how do you get job experience if most companies only want to hire people who already have it? For aspiring tradespeople, this is generally regarded as one of the most difficult parts of becoming a licensed technician. And it often feels like an impossible barrier to overcome. Companies can’t be blamed for this approach—hiring a new employee comes with significant costs, and they prefer candidates who have proven their abilities in real-world situations, not just in workshops or training environments.

But what about those who lack this advantage? Not everyone has a family member who can get them a foot in the door, nor can they rely on sheer luck to find their first opportunity. If we are actually going to address the crushing labour shortages in the trades, a systematic and scalable solution is required—one that can provide relevant work experience in a way that employers value.

Internships: Bridging the Gap Between Training and Employment

One of the most effective solutions to this challenge is the internship, sometimes called a co-op. A properly structured internship gives students the opportunity to work in a real company, gaining insights into the industry while building the experience that employers recognize as valuable. It’s a chance for students to prove themselves in a workplace environment, learning on the job while contributing meaningfully to the business.

Employers consistently value jobsite experience over classroom and workshop training when evaluating candidates for junior positions. This makes internships incredibly powerful. However, not all internships are created equal. Short-term or part-time placements may not provide enough hands-on experience to make a real difference on a resume. On the other hand, substantial, full-time internships lasting several months can transform a student from someone with no experience to someone who is ready for hire.

The Importance of Substantial, Real-World Experience

The closer an internship is to a “real job,” the more valuable it is for both students and employers. Three-week practicums or part-time co-op positions are a start, but they often fall short of providing the depth of experience needed to make a strong impression on employers. A longer, full-time internship provides a meaningful opportunity to learn, adapt, and contribute in a workplace setting.

For example, a six-month, full-time internship allows students to accumulate hundreds of hours of real-world experience, helping them build both technical skills and professional habits. This kind of comprehensive experience can set students apart from others who have only completed workshop-based training. When combined with mentorship and guidance, such internships ensure that students don’t just meet industry expectations—they exceed them.

Why Employers Value Experience Over Technical Training

When it comes to hiring entry-level tradespeople, employers often prioritize real-world experience over specific technical skills. Why? Because technical skills can be taught on the job, but professionalism, reliability, and adaptability are traits that are best learned through practical application. Employers need to know that new hires can handle the realities of a job site—tight deadlines, teamwork, and problem-solving under pressure.

This is where substantial internships shine. They give students the chance to develop these essential qualities while applying their technical knowledge in a practical setting. For employers, hiring someone who has already worked in a similar environment reduces risk and makes onboarding smoother. For students, the experience adds significant weight to their resume, showcasing their ability to contribute effectively in a professional setting.

A Systematic Solution to Gaining Experience

Without a systematic approach, such as a substantial internship, gaining real-world experience can feel like a matter of luck. This is especially true in the trades, where barriers to entry often seem insurmountable. Internships provide a scalable solution to this problem, offering students a clear path from training to employment. Programs that integrate substantial internships into their curriculum not only prepare students for the workforce but also address labor shortages in the trades by creating a pipeline of ready-to-hire talent.

At Trade Smart College, every student is automatically eligible for a six-month paid internship with a local trades company. This means that by the time they graduate, they have accumulated a minimum of 960 hours of jobsite experience. Not only does this make students more attractive to employers, but it also gives them a chance to secure a permanent position with their internship company. This approach bridges the gap between education and employment, turning “no experience” into “experience provided.”

Key Points to Remember

• Employers in the trades prioritize real-world experience over workshop training when making hiring decisions.
• Substantial, full-time internships are far more valuable than short-term or part-time placements.
• Internships help students develop technical skills, and reinforce professionalism, reliability, and adaptability in real-world settings.
• A systematic approach to internships creates a direct pathway from education to employment.
• Trade Smart College provides six-month paid internships, ensuring students graduate with 960 hours of jobsite experience.

The Bottom Line: Turning “No Experience” Into “Experience Provided”

For aspiring tradespeople, the challenge of getting job experience without already having it can feel overwhelming. But with the right approach, it’s possible to break through this barrier. Substantial internships, like those offered at Trade Smart College, provide students with the hands-on experience they need to succeed in the workforce.

By partnering with local companies and integrating internships into our curriculum, we ensure that students are prepared, focused, and ready to thrive in their careers. The trades are all about proving your ability to contribute—and with the right experience, students can show employers that they’re more than ready to take on the job.