Who We Are
Newcomer Apprenticeship Connections (NAC) is a Manitoba-based nonprofit dedicated to bridging the skilled labour shortage by empowering newcomers to enter apprenticeships and trade professions. We believe that newcomers bring incredible talent, drive, and resilience, and that Manitoba's trades sector is stronger when it reflects the diversity of our communities.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide newcomers with the skills, support, and connections they need to thrive in Manitoba's trades and apprenticeship sector, while helping employers address critical labour shortages.
Inclusion
We create pathways that are accessible to all newcomers, regardless of background or prior experience.
Collaboration
We work hand-in-hand with government agencies, industry partners, and educational institutions.
Empowerment
We equip newcomers with the tools, confidence, and connections to build lasting careers.
Community Impact
Every newcomer we support strengthens Manitoba's workforce and enriches our communities.
67+
Newcomers Supported
Growing Manitoba's Trades Workforce
Newcomer Apprenticeship Connections (NAC) was founded to help solve one of Manitoba's biggest workforce challenges by connecting newcomers with opportunities in the skilled trades.
According to the Manitoba Labour Market Outlook, the province is expected to have 138,400 job openings between 2025 and 2029, averaging approximately 27,700 opportunities each year. About 58 per cent of these openings will result from retirements and workforce replacement, while 42 per cent will be driven by economic growth. Skilled trades, transport, and equipment operator occupations alone are projected to account for 25,600 job openings, making them one of Manitoba's highest-demand occupational groups.
Many newcomers arrive in Manitoba with valuable skills and experience in the trades, but navigating apprenticeship and certification requirements can be a significant barrier to entering the workforce. Manitoba's government has identified this as an urgent challenge, making it a stated priority in its Economic Development Strategy to help more apprentices complete their training and become qualified tradespeople.
NAC was created to bridge that gap by connecting newcomers with employers, apprenticeship opportunities, and the support they need to succeed. Through these partnerships, newcomers have gone on to build rewarding careers in construction, manufacturing, electrical, plumbing, and other skilled trades.
Today, we continue to strengthen our network of industry, government, and community partners, expand training and employment pathways, and advocate for policies that make apprenticeship more accessible to newcomers. Our work creates opportunities for newcomers, helps employers find the skilled workers they need, strengthens Manitoba's skilled trades workforce, and supports the province's long-term economic growth.
Meet Our Team
Our dedicated team brings together expertise in workforce development, apprenticeship, skilled trades, strategic policy, government relations, and sector collaboration.
Neil
Executive Director
Leading NAC's vision and advocating for policies that open apprenticeship pathways for newcomers across Manitoba's trades sector.
Emily
Program Coordinator
Designing and delivering skill development programs tailored to the needs of newcomers and industry partners.
Kathy
Employer Relations Manager
Building and maintaining relationships with Manitoba employers to create apprenticeship opportunities for newcomers.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you're a newcomer looking for your first trade opportunity, or an employer seeking skilled talent, we're here to help.