Skilled trades training
British Columbians can find good-paying, family-supporting work in the trades.
There’s never been a better time to get into the trades. Nearly 100,000 job openings are expected across 100 trades in B.C. over the next decade.
B.C. is doubling funding for skilled trades training as part of our Look West jobs and economic growth strategy. This will create more opportunities for people to get trained and certified in good-paying, high-demand careers.
There’s a trade for that!
A job in trades can mean steady work, good income, and the freedom to build the life you want, right here in B.C. Trades let you earn while you learn – making it an affordable path to a brighter future.
Find out how to start your journey below.
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About the skilled trades
From carpenters and crane operators to welders, skilled trades offer many opportunities in-demand, high-paying careers.
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Find your trade
Like building, creating, fixing or mastering things – and getting paid to do it? There are 100 different skilled trades for that!
Take the quiz to match your interests with potential trades, then read the profiles to learn more.
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Try trades in high school
It’s never too early to start your skilled trades journey. Youth in Trades programs let you get a head start while you’re still in high school.
This means you could be working in your field, learning from experts and earning a paycheque – all before you graduate.
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Explore training for women and Indigenous people
Women and underrepresented groups bring new ideas, fresh perspectives and increased collaboration to the workplace.
Programs are available to help gain the information, connections and skills needed to start or grow a rewarding career in the trades.
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Start an apprenticeship
Earn while you learn! An apprenticeship combines paid on-the-job training with classroom learning that leads to a skilled trade credential.
Most apprenticeships take about 4 years. About 80% of the training is on the job supervised by a certified journeyperson, and 20% is in the classroom.
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Apply for financial support
Registered apprentices can apply for financial support and tax credits to help cover tuition and living costs during the classroom part of your training.
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Get certified
Once you complete your apprenticeship, you can take an exam to become certified. A Certification of Qualification shows you meet B.C.’s high skilled trades standards.
Certification opens doors to more opportunities – promotions, starting your own business, supervising apprentices or working in other provinces. It is now mandatory for some trades.
Get support
SkilledTrades BC
Have questions, want to discuss options or not sure where to start? Talk to an apprenticeship advisor.
Call (toll-free):
Email:
customerservice@skilledtradesbc.ca
Website:
WorkBC
WorkBC provides free employment services to help people explore their career, education and funding options.
Find a WorkBC Centre:
workbc.ca/discover-employment-services/workbc-centre-locations
Website:
Look West: Jobs and Prosperity for a Stronger BC and Canada
Look West outlines B.C.’s approach for rising to challenges brought on by Trump’s tariffs and increasing global instability.
It’s a targeted strategy to deliver major projects faster, expand skills training, and strengthen key sectors.
It builds on B.C.’s strengths and lays out priorities for the path ahead – to be the economic engine of Canada and deliver jobs and opportunities for people.