u/KeyPriority6962

I made a post here a little while ago asking for advice about the CCAT formwork preapprenticeship assessment (LOCAL 27 TORONTO) . Just wanted to give an update that I got accepted and I'm starting the program this Monday.

I'm really excited about it and I want to take it seriously, so I wanted to ask any apprentices/journeymen here what I can do during the program to really stand out and get the most out of it.

I'm pretty new to the trade, so I'm basically going in ready to learn as much as I can. What are some things instructors and employers really notice in someone new? Anything I should be practicing outside of class, like math, reading a tape, tools, drawings/layout, etc?

I'm also interested in learning scaffolding eventually. Since I'm starting out in formwork, what's the best way to branch out and get experience with scaffolding and other areas of carpentry as I go through my apprenticeship? I don't want to limit myself to knowing how to do one thing.

The program also has a placement at the end, and ideally I'd like to turn that opportunity into an actual apprenticeship. For anyone who's gone through a pre apprenticeship or works in the trade, what can I do during the program and especially during the placement to give myself the best chance of getting sponsored/kept on as an apprentice?

Long term I just want to become a really well rounded carpenter and build a good career in the trade, so any advice you wish you knew when you were first starting would be appreciated : )

have the entrance assessment coming up for a Formwork Pre Apprenticeship program through the CCAT in Ontario. It covers English and math. What should I study, and what kinds of questions should I expect? Any tips from people who’ve taken it? I haven’t done anything academic in a while, so I’m a bit rusty.

Also, as a side question, what are the next steps after completing the pre apprenticeship? Does it usually lead into an apprenticeship, or do you still have to find a employer on your own?

I made a Reddit thread about pursuing masonry 2 Months ago and wanted to reach out for some more advice. Since that thread, I’ve been applying to and calling companies pretty consistently, but I’ve mostly been getting rejections or being told they’ll keep my number on file. I’ve also spoken with the union, and they basically told me to get my basic certifications first and that there’s a waiting list. They said that with no construction experience, I could be waiting a long time and would be better off finding a job with a company first.
I’ve contacted OMTC as well, but they told me the program won’t be running again until next year. I’ve been calling regularly to see if there’s any chance of getting into a current intake or filling a spot if someone drops out, but no luck so far. At this point, I’m feeling a bit stuck. I’m still applying and making calls, but I’m not really sure what else I can be doing to improve my chances of getting into the trade. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.