After graduating high school in the summer of 2025, Jason knew he wanted to pursue a career in the skilled trades. He completed a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic pre-apprenticeship program, but like many new graduates entering the workforce, he found it difficult to take the next step.

Through the BCCA’s  Skilled Trades Employment Program (STEP), Jason was connected with his Regional Employment Placement Specialist (REPS), Dave, who helped him navigate the early stages of his career search, providing a list of HVAC employers in the Okanagan region and encouraging Jason to take a proactive approach by reaching out directly to companies.

At first, Jason worried that employers would turn him away due to his limited experience. With guidance and encouragement from his REPS, however, he began approaching businesses and introducing himself. That persistence paid off, as Jason successfully secured a position as an HVAC apprentice.

Through STEP, Jason also received support to help purchase the tools he needed to start his new role. Today, those tools are part of his daily work on the job site.

For Jason, one of the most valuable aspects of the program was the ongoing support he received throughout the process.

“What made the STEP program special for me was how easy it was to communicate with my REPS and it felt like Dave was actually interested in helping me succeed. I would recommend STEP to others because they helped me get to where I am today, which is a good spot as an apprentice at a company.”— Jason Pope, STEP Program Participant

Interested in starting your career in the skilled trades?
STEP connects entry-level apprentices with employers and provides the support, resources, and guidance needed to take the first step into the construction industry.