About the Conference

Future-Built: Apprenticeship for a Changing Canada
October 4–6, 2026 | Whistler, BC

Canada is at a turning point. From housing and infrastructure to climate adaptation and workforce shortages, the pressure is on. Apprenticeship systems are at the center of the solution.

The 2026 National Apprenticeship Conference brings together leaders from industry, government, labour, and training to rethink how apprenticeship can drive economic growth, strengthen workforce resilience, and create more inclusive pathways into the skilled trades.

This is not about maintaining the status quo. It is about challenging outdated systems, accelerating innovation, and building an apprenticeship model that reflects the realities of today and the demands of tomorrow.

Over three days, participants will explore:

  • How apprenticeship can power Canada’s response to workforce & infrastructure challenges
  • What it takes to prepare trades professionals for a rapidly evolving, tech-driven economy
  • How to advance Indigenous-led approaches & close persistent equity gaps
  • Where employers are leading with innovation in training, retention, & workplace culture

Through bold conversations, practical insights, and cross-sector collaboration, the conference will focus on what it takes to build a future-ready apprenticeship system.

Because the future of work is already here. Apprenticeship needs to lead the way. 

We thank the following organizations for their support:

OPENING BANQUET SPONSOR

PROVINCIAL HOST SPONSOR

OPENING RECEPTION SPONSOR

CANDY STORE SPONSOR

COLLABORATIVE MURAL PARTNER

PATHWAY SPONSOR

PATHWAY SPONSOR

ROOM KEY SPONSOR

INNOVATION SPOTLIGHT SPONSOR

EVENT APP SPONSOR

Want to join the growing list of organizations supporting NAC 2026? View the remaining sponsorship opportunities and explore how your organization can be part of the conference experience:

Explore Sponsorship Opportunities

The Canadian Apprenticeship Forum conducts its work across Canada on the traditional and ancestral territories of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.

As we gather in Whistler, British Columbia for the 2026 National Apprenticeship Conference, we respectfully acknowledge that the conference is taking place on the shared traditional territories of the Squamish and Lil'wat Nation.

We are honoured to host our Monday evening Member reception at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, a place that reflects and celebrates the living cultures, histories, and leadership of the Squamish and Lil’wat Peoples.

CAF-FCA is committed to ongoing learning, relationship-building, and advancing pathways that support Indigenous leadership, participation, and success in the skilled trades.

Explore the NAC 2026 Program

Three days of ideas, connections and conversations are waiting in Whistler.

NAC 2026 brings together apprenticeship leaders from across Canada for thought-provoking keynotes, practical concurrent sessions, national conversations, networking opportunities and unique conference experiences — all focused on building the future of apprenticeship in a changing Canada.

Get a snapshot of what’s planned for October 4–6, including featured sessions, keynotes, receptions and conference highlights.

VIEW THE PROGRAM AT A GLANCE

Speakers

Amanda Lindhout

Known for her compelling storytelling and globally acclaimed memoir, Amanda Lindhout speaks to audiences around the world about resilience, mental strength, and finding possibility in the face of disruption. Her work leaves audiences both challenged and inspired.

Hotel Accommodations

NAC 2026 Host Hotels – Book Soon!

Hotel demand for NAC 2026 has been strong, and our room block at the Westin Resort & Spa Whistler is now nearing capacity.

To provide delegates with additional accommodation options, we’ve added rooms at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Whistler Village Suites, also an official NAC 2026 host hotel and conveniently located in Whistler Village.


Delta Hotels Whistler Village Suites

A preferred conference rate has been secured for NAC attendees at the Delta Whistler, starting at $299 CAD/night.

Book directly with the Delta Whistler at preferred NAC rates here.

Special conference rates are available until September 10, 2026, or until the room block is fully booked.

We encourage attendees to register early, hold travel dates, and book accommodations as soon as possible.

Air Travel

Air Canada is pleased to offer preferred pricing for delegates travelling to the National Apprenticeship Conference 2026 in Whistler, BC.

Promotion Code: L4XH2GN1

To book, visit Air Canada and enter the promotion code in the Promotion Code box during booking.

Applicable travel dates:

  • October 1–9, 2026

A minimum 5% discount applies to standard fares, with higher discounts available on select fare classes and routes.

WestJet is pleased to offer preferred pricing for delegates travelling to the National Apprenticeship Conference 2026 in Whistler, BC.

Coupon Code: 3G7W1WX

To book, visit WestJet and enter the coupon code during the booking process.

Applicable travel dates:

September 27–October 13, 2026

A discount of 5% applies to Econo fares and 10% applies to EconoFlex and Premium base fares for eligible travel within Canada and between Canada and the United States.

Please note that discounts do not apply to UltraBasic or Business class fares.

Getting to Whistler

Whistler is located approximately two hours north of Vancouver International Airport along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway.

For transportation options, airport transfers, and travel tips, view our:
Transportation Information Guide

Register

  • Member discounts available

Discounts apply for :
Champion Members (25% off, up to 8 delegates)
Patron Members (20% off, up to 5 delegates)
Supporter Members (15% off, up to 2 delegates)

Not a CAF member?
Contact our Membership team to join or renew and access member-exclusive conference discounts.

Additional Tickets

  • Opening Banquet Guest Ticket

    Please note: one ticket to the Builders of the Future Banquet is already included with each Full Conference Pass registration. Additional banquet tickets are intended for guests or attendees requiring extra tickets.

    $200.00 ea.
$0.00
$0.00
$0.00

Registration Details

Dietary & Accessibility Needs

Cancellation Policy
Registration cancellations received on or before September 4, 2026, are eligible for a refund less a $50 administrative fee. Partial refunds are available until September 18, 2026. No refunds will be issued after September 18, 2026.

Delegate substitutions from the same organization may be made at any time prior to the conference at no additional charge.

Read the full policy..

I have read and agree to the NAC 2026 Cancellation, Substitution and Refund Policy.

Billing Information

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