LEARNING REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM
The Learning Reimbursement Program helps out IBEW Local 37 members with up to $2,000 for training and development activities. You can use it for courses, workshops, conferences, e-learning, and self-study!
Note, your training and development activity must contribute to your success in the workplace and/or career development.
If you’d like to apply for multiple learning activities a year, that’s great! Keep in mind, the learning reimbursement program funds a maximum of $2,000 for training and development per member, per fiscal year.
We provide the Learning Reimbursement Program funds on a “first come, first served” basis. Make sure you apply before your training, and if your employer chips in, let us know in the application. Please keep in mind, financial assistance for wages, including replacement wages, is not provided.
Here’s how it works:
- Before diving into your training, fill out Part A of the Application for Financial Support. Don’t skip this step; it needs to be approved!
- Our Trustees meet every 6 – 8 weeks and will verify if your activity fits the Training Trust Fund’s mission. You’ll get an email with the decision whether your request is approved or denied.
- If you’re approved, after finishing your training, send in Part B: Request for Reimbursement with all your receipts and proof of completion. Your reimbursement will be processed in about a month. You can send that to us via email.
Click the button below to fill out our online application.
Apply Now!
Approved Training Completed?
Have questions? Contact us or check out our Learning Reimbursement FAQ
Who is eligible?
All employees who are Local 37 union members at the “BA” or “A” level. Fee paying “FP” members can switch to the “A” or “BA” level by signing a membership card. To read more about membership types, click here and go to page 9.
Do I have to pay anything for this program?
It’s free! Members contribute ~$65 per year (0.03 cents/hour worked) through their regular paycheck. Keep in mind, the Learning Reimbursement Program requires you to pay upfront for your learning activities and you’ll be reimbursed, up to $2,000 per fiscal year, upon approval.
What kind of learning activities are funded by the Learning Reimbursement Program?
We fund a variety of activities that contribute to career development. Examples of funded activities include:
• Conferences (WiN, Safety, Human Rights and Labour Law, Arboriculture, HR, Accounting, etc.)
• Post-secondary training for certificates or degrees (e.g., Psychology, Engineering, Arts, Science)
• Professional programs (expenses related to CPA, CRSP, CPHR programs)
• Locally held workshops/seminars or conferences.
Please note: We don’t fund employer-required or subsidized activities.
What is the maximum Reimbursement?
Max $2,000 per fiscal year (April 1 – March 31). Reimbursement aligns with the fiscal year of the completed activity. For example, if you submit Part A of your application in February 2021, but the learning activity is not completed until September 2021, the reimbursement will come out of the fiscal year beginning April 1, 2021. If you submitted Part A in December 2019, but the learning activity is not completed until March 2021, then it will come out of that fiscal year’s funding ending March 31, 2021.
How many times can I access this program?
No limits on access, but a cap of $2,000 per fiscal year (April 1 – March 31).
How long does it take to get reimbursed?
Once we receive Part B (following the completion of your learning activity), approval is processed within a week. Reimbursement takes 2-5 weeks as cheques are processed once or twice monthly.
What happens if I don't complete my program/learning activity?
If you do not successfully complete your program, you are not eligible for reimbursement. Reimbursement is only available upon successful activity completion.
How will I know if my application is approved?
Approved? Currently approvals take 6 – 8 weeks. If you haven’t heard back, contact the IBEW 37 office at 455-0037 or email ttf@ibew37.com.
My application/expenses have been rejected, what now?
If your application is rejected, you can appeal, and the Training Trust will review it at their next meeting. Please keep in mind, your training and development activity must contribute to your success in the workplace and/or career development.
What happens to unused funds?
Unused funds within a fiscal year don’t roll over to the next.
My employer is funding a learning and development program, but not travel expenses. Is this type of expense covered under the program?
Yes, we cover expenses not funded by your employer. Please provide a breakdown in your application and we’ll let you know if your learning expenses are approved.
What about group training?
It’s possible for a large group to receive funding, depending on the activity, alignment with TTF mandate, and requested amount.
Can the program cover my membership fees for Qualifications?
No, we don’t cover membership fees for maintaining qualifications or certifications.
I’m out on leave, am I eligible for the Learning Reimbursement?
Members on leave are eligible if they are maintaining non-working dues and Training Trust Fund contributions. Contact the office at 506-455-0037 to discuss.
What do I do if my estimated costs are different than my actual costs?
If actual costs differ, no worries! You’ll complete form B to let us know the actual amounts once you’ve completed your training. Keep in mind, the maximum reimbursement remains $2,000 per fiscal year.