The Union of Northern Workers and GNWT have signed an agreement that allows students in the Schools North Apprenticeship Program to take skilled trades placements with the government.
In the apprenticeship program, also known as Snap, students get paid work experience in carpentry, electrical work, plumbing, automotive service, heavy equipment maintenance, welding and other trades. Students also earn high school credits.
Previously, Snap participants were not allowed to complete their placement at the GNWT or housing corporation.
Under the new agreement, the GNWT and housing corporation are not eligible for wage subsidies other businesses can receive if they hire Snap participants, according to Department of Education, Culture and Employment spokesperson Thierry Lavoie.
A GNWT news release stated the agreement with the Union of Northern Workers strengthens workforce development, addresses labour and skills shortages, and helps northerners prepare for opportunities “expected to emerge from future infrastructure and economic development projects.”
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“By expanding paid apprenticeship opportunities through Snap, students can gain valuable workplace experience, develop in-demand skills, and explore rewarding careers right here in the Northwest Territories,” education and employment minister Caitlin Cleveland was quoted saying in the news release.
Lavoie said 53 students registered for Snap in the 2025-26 school year and 52 students were registered as of September 1, 2026. Forty-seven of those 52 students are in Yellowknife.
“Young northerners should be able to see a future for themselves in their communities, building rewarding careers, strengthening our public service, and contributing to their local economies,” said Union of Northern Workers president Bassel Sleem.
“Having the chance to earn while they learn, explore a trade, and be mentored in their own communities can make that future feel within reach.”
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Lavoie said Snap participants haven’t “generally” needed to travel for work placements but, if they were from smaller communities, opportunities would “sometimes be limited by the availability and duration of local work.”
This meant students would take on short-term employment over several weeks instead of getting “sustained workplace experience and apprenticeship exposure.”
Students can apply to the Snap program by contacting their career education advisor, local education, culture and employment service centre, or by emailing the GNWT.
