If you’re already working in a salon — or planning to — Alberta’s AIT Apprenticeship Hairstyling Program is one of the smartest career moves available. It lets you earn your Journeyperson Certificate while working, combining on-the-job experience with formal technical training. 

Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is the AIT Apprenticeship Program?

The Apprenticeship and Industry Training (AIT) program is Alberta’s government-recognized pathway to becoming a fully licensed hairstylist or barber. It’s designed for people who are working in the industry and want to formalize their skills with a provincially recognized credential.

How Does It Work?

The program consists of two periods, each requiring:

  • 1,450 hours of on-the-job work experience with a qualified sponsor
  • 10 weeks of classroom technical training at an approved provider
  • A theory exam at the end of each period

Each period is designed to take approximately one year, giving a total program length of roughly two years.

Do You Need a Sponsor to Start?

No — and this is a common misconception. You can register as an apprentice and begin your technical classroom training without a sponsor. A sponsor (an employer) is only required to log your on-the-job hours. This means you can start learning immediately while you look for a sponsoring salon. 

Where Can You Take the Classroom Training in Southern Alberta?

This is where NIWE Academy holds a unique position. There are only two AIT-approved providers for Apprenticeship Hairstyling technical training in Alberta — M.C. College serving Northern Alberta, and NIWE Academy serving Southern Alberta. 

If you’re in Calgary or anywhere in Southern Alberta, NIWE Academy is your approved provider.

What’s Covered in the Classroom Training?

Period 1 includes: Consultations, haircutting, styling, tapers, fades, hot shaves, and scalp treatments.
Period 2 includes: Styling, perms, chemical relaxers, and colouring and lightening.

Both periods include theory exam preparation at no additional cost.

What Credential Do You Earn?

Upon completing both periods and your work hours, you earn your Journeyperson Certificate — Alberta’s provincial standard for licensed hairstylists. You can also pursue the optional Red Seal Endorsement, which is recognized across Canada. 

Ready to Register?

Contact NIWE Academy’s admissions team to start your apprenticeship registration or book a tour of our Calgary facility.

Learn More About the Apprenticeship Program → https://learn.niwe.ca/book-a-tour-niweacademy