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TRAINING FOR THE SKILLED TRADES

Emphasizing the province’s commitment to equipping trades with future-focused skills and training.

Trades professionals are the foundation for building the future of BC, and they are in demand now more than ever. The StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan is a generational commitment to accelerating talent and skills training throughout the province.

TradeUpBC brings together British Columbia’s post-secondary institutes to help experienced tradespeople and employers remain resilient, adaptable, and inclusive by providing access to microcredentials and professional development offerings. These offerings will assist tradespeople and employers in advancing their careers, strengthening their businesses, creating welcoming worksites for everyone, and ensuring they are prepared for future opportunities.

TradeUpBC is a provincially-funded initiative that connects tradespeople to all BC post-secondary institutes.

Explore Your Opportunities

The sectors listed below provide information on available programs, courses, and accredited education institute partners across British Columbia and the Yukon. Choose your industry and start planning your future today!

Construction Trades
Environmental Trades
Hair & Esthetics
Hospitality
Manufacturing
Maritime Trades
Transportation Trades
View all course offerings

Areas of Demand

TradeUpBC has identified seven key areas of demand aimed at supporting certified or experienced trades workers and employers through specialized training programs. The programs offered on the TradeUpBC website are designed to complement apprentice training rather than replace it.

Changes in
Technology
Climate Change
Impacts
Leadership Skills
Development
Business
Skills
Inclusive
Workplaces
Educator
Training
Advanced
Safety Skills
Learn more
Featured Course

Zero Emissions Vehicle Service and Technology

Zero Emissions Vehicle Service and Technology prepares Automotive Service Technicians (AST) to safely diagnose and service high voltage electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. Certified technicians, registered AST 3rd and 4th year apprentices will build on previous understanding of conventional vehicle systems to develop skills in preparation for the increasing use of electric vehicles on our roads. This course has an 8 hour online self-paced module that must be completed in advance of the 30 hour in-person classroom/shop training period.

Trades Resources
Featured Course

Instructor Education

The VIU Faculty of Trades and Applied Technology is offering instructor education. Completed Instructor Education courses are transferable credits toward the Provincial Instructor Diploma Program (PIDP).

Trades Resources
Featured Course

Canada's Ozone Layer Protection Awareness Program

This mandatory online training course is based on  Environment Canada’s Code of Practice for reducing CFC Emissions in the Refrigeration and Air Condition Industry and to prepare individuals working in the industry for the B.C. Legislation on Ozone Layer Protection. 

 

Trades Resources
Featured Course

Commercial Vehicle Inspection

For journeymen automotive, commercial transport, and heavy-duty mechanics who work or wish to work for a designated Inspection Facility. Employers to sign up for Vehicle Inspection Standards online before the start of the course

Trades Resources
Featured Course

Landscape Horticulture Trade Education Program

This course provides landscape horticulture students with critical skills in estimating and project management, tailored to meet industry standards. Students will master the art of accurate project cost estimation, budget management, and resource allocation, ensuring successful landscape project completions. The course emphasizes practical application, fostering competencies in planning, executing, and controlling projects efficiently.

Trades Resources
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Success Stories

Stories from tradespeople who found success

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE

START YOUR CAREER JOURNEY Read more success stories

Success Stories

Stories from tradespeople who found success

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE

START YOUR CAREER JOURNEY Read more success stories
Success Story
Success Stories

Logan Henson

Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Mechanic, Business Owner

Alberni Valley Refrigeration

From high school to apprentice, then certified tradesperson to business owner, Logan Henson’s journey is a great example of the power of ongoing education to advance careers and open exciting new pathways for both experienced tradespeople and the business owners who employ them.

Read Logan's Story
Success Story
Success Stories

Wallis Plumpton

Plumber

MGM Mechanical

Wallis Plumpton is kind of surprised. The 36-year-old has just entered year three of the four-year BC plumbing apprenticeship program and is excited about the future. This is a story of discovery, full of twists and turns with some surprises along the way.

Read Wallis' Story