April 05,2024

TradeUpBC Builds and Enhances Tradespeoples’ Skills

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News Release - B.C. Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills

Tradespeople in British Columbia have access to new and specialized training opportunities through TradeUpBC, an online hub that supports skilled trades professionals and their employers.

"Tradespeople in B.C. build the foundation of the province that we all benefit from. It's their growing expertise, skill and innovation that contribute to B.C. now and will continue to contribute in the future," said Lisa Beare, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. "TradeUpBC supports their growth and brings together short-term training opportunities for experienced Red Seal tradespeople into one online platform. This one-stop shop will help them further enhance their skills, advance their careers, strengthen their businesses and supercharge a sustainable economy."

The TradeUpBC website is a one-stop shop with information about trades-training opportunities available at public post-secondary institutions throughout B.C., including professional development offerings, micro-credentials, and short-term training.

"Today's economy and workplaces are rapidly evolving, providing both challenges and opportunities for workers," said Janet Routledge, Parliamentary Secretary for Labour. "So, it is critical that workers can access focused skills training to help them keep up to date on industry changes, build their careers and prepare them for the future."

These course offerings provide additional reskilling and training opportunities that fall outside of formal apprenticeship training programs. They are designed to promptly address the demands of emerging skills in rapidly evolving job markets. Courses are available through various modalities, such as online learning, virtual delivery, in-person sessions or blended options, including evening and weekend classes.

"TradeUpBC is a testament to the collaborative efforts of B.C.'s public post-secondary institutions," said Ken Armour, CEO of Trades Training BC. "It reinforces our commitment to advancing the skills and careers of tradespeople across British Columbia. Together, we are shaping the future of our province's workforce by providing accessible, relevant and diverse training options that align with the evolving demands of the job market."

Experienced or certified tradespeople can visit the TradeUpBC website for course offerings in a variety of sectors, including construction trades, environmental trades, hair and cosmetics, hospitality, manufacturing, maritime trades, and transportation trades.

The StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan, released on May 2, 2023, is a cross-government plan to make education and training more accessible, affordable and relevant to help prepare the people of B.C. for the jobs of today and tomorrow.

The plan is supported by a $480-million investment from the B.C. government to break down barriers to post-secondary education. This allows more people to get training for in-demand careers and employers can access the talent they need.

For a list of participating post-secondary institutions, visit https://www.tradeupbc.ca/signup-enrollment/

For a list of course offerings, visit https://www.tradeupbc.ca/course-offerings/ and choose your sector.