Education
There are skilled trades training programs in every region of our province thanks to us using publicly funded projects to train up the next generation of workers – on the job. Thanks to our support, SkilledTradesBC funds more than 26,000 apprenticeship and foundation training seats to train the next generation of skilled trade construction workers in B.C, and we are just getting started. For formal instruction off the job site, since taking office our BC NDP government has taken steps to support the construction industry through our Future Ready plan, by making training more accessible and affordable to train the workers that will join the construction industry in British Columbia. Today, technical training is available in more than 65 trades and offered at 15 public post-secondary institutions and non-public training providers. These numbers will continue to grow under our government.
– British Columbia New Democratic Party
To expand skilled trades training programs in BC, we will:
- Invest in more trades training spaces: Wait lists are often an impediment for people to complete their Red Seal designation. Encourage more institutions like Pacific Vocational College, which has produced 20,000+ plumbers and gasfitters
- Update curriculum faster: It should not take 4 years to change trades training courses
- Enhance online delivery so that people can be trained remotely, in the evenings and on weekends
– Conservative Party of British Columbia
The BC Greens will work closely with the Construction Association to promote trades as a career option for young people, women, Indigenous, and racialized communities.
We would ensure that training programs are accessible and have affordable tuition.
We would make it easier for people in underserved communities to access existing programs by collaborating with Student Aid BC to expand the list of professions eligible for student loan forgiveness, targeting in-demand occupations such as the trades.
– Green Party of British Columbia
Hard-working British Columbians in the construction sector want to build a good life for themselves and their families. We know that right now, the economy and workplaces are rapidly evolving, providing both challenges and opportunities for workers. The future can feel uncertain in lots of ways, but our BC NDP government is committed to supporting the construction sector to make sure no one falls behind. That’s why we launched the Workplace Innovation Fund, a program focused on preparing a talented workforce for the challenges that lie ahead, along with supporting industry to adopt new technologies and developing innovative training practices. Our plan to ensure students are equipped with the skills needed for the future job market is supported by our BC NDP government’s $480-million investment to break down barriers in post-secondary education, so more British Columbians can get training for in-demand careers and employers in the construction sector can access the talent they need.
– British Columbia New Democratic Party
We will work with groups such as trade unions, employers, and construction associations on how to deliver a curriculum that is up to date and easily accessible to skilled trade workers.
– Conservative Party of British Columbia
The BC Greens prioritize meaningful employment opportunities for youth, fostering environmental stewardship and green skills development. We will work with the construction industry to create and/or expand existing programs for young people and apprentices to upskill in retrofitting and improving the environmental footprint of existing buildings, and position BC as a global leader in prefabricated home technologies by investing in innovation and developing comprehensive design guidelines.
– Green Party of British Columbia
Our government launched TradeUpBC, a one stop shop that supports experienced trades professionals and employers. Giving construction workers and professionals access to new and specialized training opportunities. We know that it is critical that workers can access flexible opportunities, designed to withstand the evolving demands of the job market. TradeUpBC provides additional reskilling and training opportunities for tradespeople that fall outside of formal apprenticeship training programs. Designed to promptly address the demands of emerging skills in the rapidly evolving construction sector, we made sure that courses were available through various ways, such as online learning, virtual delivery, in-person sessions or blended options, including evening and weekend classes.
– British Columbia New Democratic Party
We will work with trade unions, employers, and construction associations to determine the best way to deliver up-to-date educational opportunities for workers.
– Conservative Party of British Columbia
The BC Greens would increase access to post-secondary education and support for adult students, by increasing the amount students can receive through the BC Access Grant, and extending eligibility to reduce financial barriers.
– Green Party of British Columbia