Apprenticeship

What is the RV Service Technician trade?

Embark on a journey into the captivating world of RV Service Technicians! These skilled professionals specialize in the intricate workings of various recreational vehicles, including motorhomes and towables such as travel trailers, fifth-wheel trailers, and more. They masterfully handle systems such as electrical components, plumbing, propane gas components, appliances, and structural frames.

Recognized as a Red Seal trade, an RV Service Technician with this endorsement has met the national standard, showcasing expertise applicable across Canada. Delve into this exciting trade through a comprehensive apprenticeship covering 27 skilled trade areas.

A career for the creative and those who relish challenges, RV Service Technicians thrive in diverse environments, embracing continuous learning in a field where technology constantly evolves. Ready to explore the limitless possibilities of the RV Service Technician trade?

How Apprenticeships Work

Apprenticeships in high schools are designed to prepare students for skilled trades by incorporating career exploration, planning, and practical skills into the curriculum. These programs offer valuable hands-on experience and allow students to develop essential skills, work ethic, and workplace discipline while earning a wage.

In the youth apprenticeship program, students are both full-time students and registered apprentices, making it possible to balance work placements with high school studies. The flexibility in scheduling enables students to allocate their time between school and the work site as needed.

By registering as a youth apprentice, students can engage in part-time trade work throughout the school year, a semester, weekends, holidays, or the summer while earning high school credits.

Upon completing high school, the youth apprenticeship transitions seamlessly into a regular apprenticeship, utilizing the on-the-job hours accumulated during the program. This integrated approach provides a smooth transition from student to apprentice and offers a head start towards journeyperson certification, setting the stage for a successful career in the chosen trade.


There are three types of apprenticeship programs:

  1. Youth Apprenticeship

  • Dual-Credit (also known as Youth Train in Trades) Program gives youths a jump start in their apprenticeship and post-secondary journey through a partnership with schools boards, post-secondary institutions and industry. Designed exclusively for students in grades 11 and 12, these programs allows students to graduate with their high school diploma and a post-secondary credential or course credits. This program offers in-school training ONLY.

  • Registered Apprenticeship (Youth Work In Trades) Program

The Youth Work in Trades program offers students the opportunity to kick-start their apprenticeship career from grade 10 through 12. This unique initiative seamlessly integrates paid work-based training with a provincial curriculum, emphasizing the practical application, reflection, and enhancement of essential workplace skills, safety practices, work ethic, and job readiness.

Enrolled students not only earn credits towards their high school diploma but are also registered as apprentices (employer-sponsored) with their respective Provincial Apprenticeship Authority. It's noteworthy that this program exclusively focuses on hands-on work-based training, and no in-class training is included, providing a direct and practical pathway toward the attainment of provincially and nationally recognized industry trades credentials.

2. Pre-Apprenticeship (also known as foundation program)

The Pre-Employment program is gateway program for those aspiring to the field of Recreational Vehicle service. Catering to individuals without prior skilled trades experience, it equips them with hands-on skills, mechanical aptitude, and effective problem-solving capabilities.

Distinguishing itself with versatility, the program integrates aspects of 27 designated trades while molding students into well-rounded professionals. Covering diverse skills, from pre-delivery inspections to troubleshooting, the curriculum aligns with the apprenticeship model, preparing graduates for the first-year apprenticeship program and Trade Qualification (TQ) Apprenticeship Exam.

3. Formal Apprenticeship

The 3-year apprenticeship program for RV Service Technicians is meticulously designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of recreational vehicle systems and components. Spanning three levels, each lasting 8 weeks, the program ensures a well-rounded education and hands-on experience.

Level 1 establishes a solid foundation, covering essential topics from applied mathematics to critical RV systems. In Level 2, apprentices deepen their expertise in exterior construction, accessories, and safety, exploring electrical and appliance systems. Level 3 elevates skills to a professional level, incorporating specialized training in hydraulics, slide-out systems, and advanced appliance servicing.

This comprehensive program is tailored for individuals with diverse interests in skilled trades, providing an exciting and multi-skilled career path for those enthusiastic about Recreation Vehicles and outdoor recreation. The structured learning approach seamlessly blends on-the-job training with apprenticeship education, covering crucial aspects such as workplace safety, electrical systems, appliance operations, and more. Upon successful completion, participants not only attain journeyperson status but also have the opportunity to take the Interprovincial Red Seal Exam. A successful outcome in this exam signifies that the skilled technician meets rigorous industry standards, possessing the essential skills and competencies required to excel in this trade across Canada. It's a journey into a dynamic and rewarding career with a recognized and respected professional designation.

  • An apprentice is a paid employee who works under the supervision of a certified journeyperson to learn the skills of their trade. Approximately 80% of their time is spent on the job and 20% in technical training. An apprentice must be registered with the apprenticeship authority and fulfill all requirements established by their province or territory. Apprentices often qualify for financial supports, including Employment Insurance while in school.

  • A journeyperson, having fulfilled all training requirements and successfully passed a certification exam, possesses the expertise to not only work independently in their trade but also to serve as a mentor to registered apprentices. In this mentoring capacity, journeypersons facilitate hands-on learning experiences for apprentices, guiding them through the tasks outlined at each level of the apprenticeship program. They play a vital role in assessing and signing off when apprentices demonstrate the required competencies, actively contributing to the development and enhancement of apprentice skill sets.

  • The skilled trades span a diverse array of hands-on occupations organized into four primary sectors: construction, manufacturing, motive power, and service. With over 300 recognized skilled trades occupations across Canada, it's important to note that not all trades are universally designated in every province or territory. The Recreation Vehicle Service Technician trade is a designed, Red Seal Trade.

  • Each province and territory in Canada has a regulatory system that administers apprenticeship training for the skilled trades. These authorities determine the educational requirements, program length, competencies and processes for undertaking an apprenticeship in their region. Authorities uphold program standards, preside over examinations and issue Certificates of Qualification.

  • An apprenticeship authority typically issues a logbook upon apprentice registration, detailing the skills related to the skilled trade. As apprentices acquire new skills, their journeyperson mentor acknowledges competence by signing, creating a record of the apprentice's advancements. The logbook also documents the hours worked.

  • The Interprovincial Red Seal Program is a national standard of excellence. Established to ensure certified tradespeople were mobile across Canada, the Red Seal is recognized by employers as an indication that a journeyperson has met a common standard of knowledge and experience in their trade. The Red Seal is an endorsement to the provincial/territorial certificate of qualification provided upon passing the Red Seal exam with a score of at least 70%.

    There are 56 “Red Seal” trades, representing the majority of apprenticeship training. Apprentices in Red Seal programs across Canada undergo a common final exam, and upon success, receive an endorsement on their provincial/territorial certificate. Governed jointly by the provinces and territories through the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program, this initiative enables apprentices in Red Seal trades to access federal grants and loans during technical training, alongside additional supports provided by their province/territory. This integrated approach ensures uniformity and excellence in skilled trades training throughout the country.

Apprenticeship terminology

Benefits of becoming an apprentice

Becoming an apprentice in a Red Seal trade offers numerous benefits, both on a personal and professional level. An apprenticeship in the RV Service Technician trade, in particular, opens doors to a fulfilling and rewarding career, presenting various avenues for growth, stability, and financial success. It provides individuals with the opportunity to develop practical skills that are highly sought after, enabling them to make substantial contributions to their communities and industries.

Here are some of the key advantages of pursuing an apprenticeship in a Red Seal trade:

  • Apprenticeships offer immersive, hands-on training within an authentic work environment. Through this practical experience, you not only acquire valuable skills but also delve into the intricacies of your chosen trade, providing a holistic understanding of the industry.

  • As an apprentice, you receive a wage while you undergo training. This distinctive arrangement allows you to earn income while actively pursuing certification, seamlessly blending practical work experience with educational growth.

  • Successfully finishing an apprenticeship in a Red Seal trade results in industry certification, a nationally recognized credential signifying a high level of competence in your chosen trade.

  • Attaining certification in a Red Seal trade not only fortifies your job security but also elevates your desirability as a professional within the thriving Recreation Vehicle sector.

  • Red Seal certification stands as a national badge of excellence, universally acknowledged across Canada. With this esteemed credential, you gain the freedom to practice your trade seamlessly in any Province or Territory, eliminating the necessity for additional certifications.

  • Certified tradespeople often earn competitive wages, and as you gain experience and expertise, your earning potential typically increases.

  • Embarking on an apprenticeship in the Recreation Vehicle Service Technician trade not only opens doors for continuous learning and skill development but also offers avenues for advanced training specific to the evolving technologies of the RV industry.

  • RV service technicians work on a wide range of tasks, from routine maintenance to complex repairs. This variety keeps the job interesting and engaging. They also enjoy the challenge of diagnosing and solving problems as each RV may present unique issues, requiring critical thinking and troubleshooting skills.

  • With experience and certification in the Recreation Vehicle Service Technician trade, you have the exciting opportunity to venture into entrepreneurship and establish your own RV dealership or service center. Moreover, the Achievement in Business Competencies – Blue Seal Program, available in Saskatchewan and Alberta, empowers journeypersons like you to enhance your business skills and pursue entrepreneurship.

  • Engaging in apprenticeships fosters not only the acquisition of new skills and the overcoming of challenges but also encourages personal growth and builds self-confidence. Throughout this journey, apprentices become integral members of a supportive community of fellow tradespeople, creating a network that contributes to their overall development and success.

  • Skilled trades are respected professions that require dedication, expertise, and a commitment to safety and quality.

  • From sophisticated electrical and heating systems to state-of-the-art appliances, RVs are at the forefront of innovation, providing comfort and convenience to travellers. As the industry embraces sustainable practices, the incorporation of eco-friendly features and energy-efficient solutions further positions RVs as pioneers in the realm of innovation.

  • In the traditional apprenticeship model, employers play a pivotal role in the training and development of apprentices, offering on-the-job learning experiences, mentorship, and guidance. This hands-on approach allows apprentices to immerse themselves in real-world work scenarios, honing their skills and gaining practical insights directly within the industry. Employers invest in the apprentices' growth, providing them with the necessary tools and knowledge to navigate their chosen trade with competence and confidence. This collaborative learning environment not only fosters technical proficiency but also cultivates a supportive culture that values the transfer of skills from experienced professionals to the next generation.

How to Register As An Apprentice

  • Students participating in the youth apprenticeship program divide their time between an approved work placement and their high school studies. The time the participating student spends at school and at the work site can be flexible.

    Register as a youth apprentice in your Province with your Provincial Apprenticeship Authority and get a head-start on your career.

    Work in the trade of your choice part-time during the whole school year, for a semester, on weekends and holidays, or during the summer. As you work, you will earn wages, high school credit, and on-the-job apprenticeship hours for a head-start toward journeyperson certification after high school.

    When you complete high school:

    • Your youth apprenticeship ends

    • You are automatically registered as a regular apprentice, and

    • The on-the-job hours you earned while in the youth apprenticeship are applied to your apprenticeship program.

  • Before you can register as an apprentice, you first need an employer who agrees to provide you with on-the-job training and allow you to attend the classroom portion of your apprenticeship program. You and your employer will enter into an agreement that must be registered with your provincial or territorial apprenticeship authority. Your employer must officially register you as an apprentice in the RV service technician trade with the provincial/territorial apprenticeship authority.

    Contact your Apprenticeship Authority to learn more about the steps you and your employer need to follow to get you registered as an apprentice.

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