Whether you know what trade you want to pursue or you're still on your journey of discovery, explore programs and resources here.
Taking a foundation program can help you build the skills that employers are looking for, making you well-positioned to find an employment in the trade and begin an apprenticeship.
Foundation training programs are typically conducted in a classroom or shop setting and can vary from 13 weeks to 10 months.
Your technical and work-based training hours acquired from the Foundation program will be counted towards your next step in training as an apprentice.
Apprenticeship programs are a combination of classroom learning and on-the-job training that leads to a trade credential such as a Certificate of Qualification or Red Seal, and often take 4 years to complete.
The in-class portion can range from 4-10 weeks per year. For the on-the-job portion, you must have an employer who will sponsor you, where you will work and earn income.
A Red Seal designation involves further examination and allows you to work anywhere in Canada.
TRADES
Youth can begin an apprenticeship in high school through the Youth Train in Trades or Youth Work in Trades programs. Contact your local school district to find out which programs are being offered.
TRADES
This partnership is led by tradespeople and labour representatives who are committed to increasing the participation in trades and promote healthier work environments for equity priority people, including Indigenous peoples, people with disabilities, people of colour, 2SLGBTIAQ+ people and women.
TRADES
SkilledTradesBC, formally known as Industry Training Authority, manages over 100 trades programs in B.C., 48 of which are Red Seal. SkilledTradesBC leads and coordinates B.C.’s skilled trades system by working with employers, employees, industry, labour, training providers and government to issue credentials, manage apprenticeships, set program standards, and increase opportunities in the trades.
