STEP – Skilled Trades Employment Program

STEP Spotlight: Justin Hudson

Impact Public Affairs — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 07:00:40 +0000

Justin Hudson is pursuing a career as an electrician through the Skilled Trades Employment Program (STEP).

After graduating from high school, Justin connected with STEP to help him begin his journey into the skilled trades. As a newcomer to Canada, he was looking for support as he explored career opportunities and prepared for training in the electrical field. Through STEP, Justin received assistance with resume and cover letter development, completed SiteReadyBC, Fall Protection, and Elevated Work Platform certifications, and accessed financial support for tools and safety equipment.

Reflecting on his experience, Justin shared how STEP contributed to his progress and helped him stay focused on his goals.

“All the hard work has paid off, and I credit my success to the STEP program, STEP staff and my mom”— Justin Hudson, STEP Program Participant

With encouragement from his Regional Employment Placement Specialist, Justin successfully applied for a scholarship that helped fund his Electrical Foundation training. He has since completed the program and continues working toward a career in the electrical trade.

Justin’s story demonstrates how training, support, and encouragement can help aspiring tradespeople build confidence and take meaningful steps toward a career in construction.

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.

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Building Confidence in the Trades: Jason’s Experience with STEP

Joey Bulman — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 22:40:09 +0000

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

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Starting a Career in Plumbing: Carson Martin’s STEP Journey

Joey Bulman — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 22:25:18 +0000

At 23, Carson Martin was ready for a new direction. After spending a couple of years working in landscaping, he decided he wanted to pursue a long-term career in the skilled trades, specifically plumbing. To help get started, Carson turned to BCCA’s STEP program for support.

Through STEP, Carson received help with updating his resume, giving him a more professional presentation as he began applying for opportunities. The program also helped him with purchasing the tools he needed to begin working in his trade.

Carson was connected with his Regional Employment Placement Specialist (REPS), Dave, who guided him through the process of entering the trades and starting an apprenticeship.

“Dave made the entire experience very easy by explaining everything clearly about the apprenticeship process and checking in every couple of weeks to make sure things were going well at the company I’m working for.” — Carson Martin, STEP Program Participant

Programs like BCCA’s STEP help job seekers access the tools, guidance, and industry connections they need to begin successful careers in construction trades.

Interested in starting a career in the trades? Learn more about how STEP can support your path into the construction industry.

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Jean Yu – From Foundation to the Jobsite

Joey Bulman — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 17:29:23 +0000

Jean Yu had the education, but he needed the connection. After completing his Electrical Foundation program, he faced a competitive job market that can feel overwhelming for a new tradesperson.

“I don’t know where I would be without STEP,” Jean admits. “Life would have been so much more stressful and difficult had I not gone through the program.”

Jean describes the sign-up process as “quick, simple, and easy.” He was immediately connected with Doug, a Regional Employment Placement Specialist (REPS). Doug focused on finding the “best possible job” suited to Jean’s skills rather than simply filling a vacancy. He refined Jean’s resume and provided targeted job leads.

Shortly after signing up, Jean secured a sponsorship with a local employer and began his apprenticeship. To ensure he was safe and professional on Day 1, STEP outfitted him with the necessary gear.

“The tools and PPE were all of high quality and from reputable brands,” Jean notes.

Jean emphasizes the confidence he gained from having an expert in his corner.

“It was very calming knowing that I was not alone in such an important part of my life,” he says. “Signing up with STEP was the easiest decision I have made, and it has made a huge impact on kickstarting my career.”

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Tejinder Singh – Overcoming the “No Experience” Barrier

Joey Bulman — Fri, 05 Dec 2025 23:25:25 +0000

Tejinder’s Start in the Electrical Trade

How a connection through STEP helped a new graduate secure
his first job with Elecraa Electricals Ltd.

Like many new graduates, Tejinder Singh had the education but needed the opportunity. After completing his Electrical Foundation Level 1 at Northern Lights College, he was eager to work but found himself hitting a wall. Without field experience, finding an employer willing to give him a chance was proving difficult.

“I didn’t have much experience in the field and was struggling to find an employer willing to give me a chance,” Tejinder recalls. “I was looking for guidance and support to help me get started in my electrical career.”

That’s when he connected with STEP and his Regional Employment Placement Specialist (REPS), Teresa.

The STEP program is designed to bridge the gap between motivated job seekers and employers looking for talent. For Tejinder, the support was comprehensive. Teresa worked with him to refine his resume, prepared him for the job market, and provided the essential gear and tools he needed to step onto a job site with confidence.

“The personal support from my STEP REPS, Teresa, made a big difference. She was always available to answer questions and guide me step by step through the process.”

The process worked. STEP connected Tejinder with Rahul Kalra, Owner of Elecraa Electricals Ltd., creating a successful match that benefited both the job seeker and the employer. Today, Tejinder is working as an Electrician Apprentice, gaining the hands-on experience he was looking for.

“Things are going great. I’m gaining valuable hands-on experience in the trade and continuing to build my skills. The help with tools and job placement really made it easier for me to start working with confidence.”

Tejinder’s story is proof that with the right support, the transition from classroom to career is possible.

“I would definitely recommend STEP to others. It’s a great program for anyone starting a career in the trades. They provide excellent support, from resumes to job placement, and make the transition into work much smoother.”

Ready to Advance Your Construction Career?

If you’re ready to take the next step in your construction career, STEP can connect you with the resources and opportunities to succeed. Learn more about how STEP can support your journey by visiting STEP’s website.

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Anne Forget – From Psychology to Power Tools

Silvia Malova — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 14:16:35 +0000

Anne’s Journey into the Trades

After earning a degree in Forensic Sciences and Psychology, Anne Forget spent several years working in the mental health field. While meaningful, the demands of the job began to take a toll. “I realized it wasn’t for me as I was bringing work home with me, and it was very demanding emotionally.”

Anne later moved into a management role, but the office setting didn’t align with what she was looking for in a career as the work left her feeling disconnected.

“I had always had an interest in trades and electrical particularly, which would have been what I would have chosen after high school, but I was pushed towards university. It was quite a difficult decision to go back to school and start at the bottom once again, not working for 6 months while in school and knowing I would start back at the bottom, all the while bills never stop coming in.”

That’s where STEP came in.

Anne connected with her STEP Regional Employment Placement Specialist (REPS), Dave Croteau, who helped her navigate the transition. “I want to say a big thank you to Dave and the STEP program! It has been such a great help. I am very grateful for the financial support—it really helped make the transition into the trades that much easier.”

From resume support and job search guidance to safety training, tools, and work gear, Anne received what she needed to start strong. “It really helped bring down the stress of finding that first job, especially not being the ‘typical’ apprentice. I felt prepared and like I had everything I needed to focus on my new job and being the best apprentice I can be.”

Anne is now employed with an electrical company and thriving in her new role.

“It feels good/rewarding to build something with my hands and to move during my work day instead of being in front of a computer all day. I am now done my probationary period with work and have scheduled my level 2 technical training and very much looking forward to it and to continue to learn. I’m looking forward to becoming a red seal electrician and exploring the various job opportunities out there.”

For Anne, the decision to pursue a trade brought her closer to work that’s meaningful, active, and hands-on, and STEP helped make the path forward a little easier.

Ready to Advance Your Construction Career?

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Kayode Atoyebi – Building a New Career with the Right STEP.

Silvia Malova — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 17:41:47 +0000

Building a New Career with the Right STEP.

When Kayode Atoyebi arrived in Canada as an internationally trained construction professional, he was determined to continue building his career. As he began settling into his new community, the path forward was unclear.

“I was challenged with my transition into the Canadian construction industry, until I came across the STEP program, which gave me the opportunity to start an apprenticeship in the plumbing trade with the goal of obtaining a Red Seal.”

Through STEP, Kayode was matched with Sharon Miller, Regional Employment Placement Specialist (REPS), who helped him obtain the tools, safety training, and mentorship needed to navigate a new country and industry with confidence.

“Sharon supported me every step of the way. I received assistance optimizing my resume for the Canadian job market, learned how to market my skill set to employers, and got invaluable job search tips.”

That support paid off: within a few months, Kayode secured employment in his trade.

“I can boldly say that a journey of a thousand miles starts with the right step. My daily steps now are filled with passion to achieve my Red Seal with the support of STEP program .”

As he continues to grow in his career, Kayode is learning more about plumbing code compliance, employer sponsorship, and the unique dynamics of BC’s construction industry.

“My success story is not complete without the smooth transition and guidance from the STEP program. I’m absolutely grateful to be a part of this laudable initiative.”

Ready to Advance Your Construction Career?

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Chelsea Roy – From Mill Closure to Trades Success

Silvia Malova — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 17:33:35 +0000

How STEP Helped Chelsea Roy Start Fresh

When the mill in Fort St. John announced its permanent closure, one local worker saw an opportunity to finally pursue a long-time goal: starting a career in the trades., Although not experienced, Chelsea Roy was motivated and began searching online for guidance—where she discovered STEP.

“I didn’t have any trades background, but I’d always hoped to get into the trades through the union.” she said. “When the mill closed, I realized I needed to figure out how to get started on my own.”

Chelsea connected with Teresa from STEP, who quickly scheduled a phone call. “We had a long conversation about different options and some of the obstacles I was imagining. Teresa was really encouraging and helped me see that there were more paths than I thought.”

That initial call led to an in-person meeting, where they explored schooling options, direct-entry trades pathways, and what she’d need to get into oil and gas. Since Fort St. John doesn’t have a local trades program, STEP provided personalized advice on where to go for training and how to access financial supports.

“My experience with STEP was amazing,” Chelsea emphasized. “Teresa was so supportive and kind. She gave me great information about grants, programs, and how to approach this transition—even as someone new to the trades, at my age, and as a woman entering the field.”

The result? A much faster job start than she expected.

“By the time I left the STEP office, I already had a text from Ace Instruments arranging an interview for the following Monday. That same day, I had another interview lined up too. Ace offered me a job after the interview, and I accepted right away. It was going even better than I hoped.”

Now working with a well-established local company, Chelsea’s receiving daily mentorship and growing in confidence.

“I’m learning so much and have a lot of support from the journeymen and management. I’m so glad I found STEP—it made the whole process less scary and helped me get started faster than I ever imagined. I’d absolutely recommend STEP to anyone thinking about trades.”

Ready to Advance Your Construction Career?

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Austan Vandenbrand – Starting Strong in the Trades

Silvia Malova — Tue, 13 May 2025 21:32:07 +0000

When Austan began his search for a job in the skilled trades, he knew he needed support to get started. That’s when he connected with STEP—a decision that set him on the path to a successful career as an electrician.

“I was looking for help with finding a job, and STEP did just that,” says Austan. “They helped me connect with an employer who was hiring and provided me with all the tools I needed to get started.”

Thanks to STEP, Austan received not only essential gear for the job, but also valuable training, including Fall Arrest certification. These resources gave him the confidence and readiness to step onto the job site and begin working safely and effectively.

Now over a month into his role as an Electrician Apprentice, Austan is putting his training and tools to use every day.

“STEP is a great resource,” he says. “They really helped me start my journey in the electrical trade and supported me in getting registered with SkilledTradesBC.”

With a solid foundation and a promising future ahead, Austan is grateful for the role STEP played in launching his career.

“I only have good things to say about STEP. They gave me exactly what I needed to take that first step into the trades.”

Ready to Advance Your Construction Career?

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Clark McMaster – From Zoology to the Skilled Trades

Silvia Malova — Tue, 13 May 2025 21:28:06 +0000

With a Master’s degree in Zoology, Clark had always been passionate about understanding complex systems—but finding meaningful work in his field proved difficult. After facing repeated challenges in the job market, he began to consider a new path—one that would allow him to apply his curiosity and problem-solving skills in a more practical, hands-on environment.

“I’ve always had a strong interest in how electrical systems work,” Clark says. “I realized I needed a career that offered more stability and growth, and the skilled trades felt like the right fit.”

Despite his enthusiasm, transitioning into the trades wasn’t easy. With no prior experience in construction or electrical work, Clark felt unsure about how to break in. He needed help translating his academic background into skills relevant to the construction industry—and that’s when he found STEP.

Through STEP, Clark received the guidance and tools he needed to make a confident shift into his new career. From creating a trade-specific resume to navigating the hidden job market, STEP helped him bridge the gap between his past experience and his future goals.

“Kyle, my liaison at STEP, was instrumental in my success,” Clark recalls. “He matched me with a company that aligned perfectly with my interests and strengths, and provided constant support throughout the transition.”

Today, Clark is working as a construction electrician—and thriving. He’s gaining hands-on experience, taking on more responsibility, and finally feels like he’s on a path that combines stability with personal fulfillment.

“What made STEP stand out was the personalized attention,” he says. “Kyle didn’t just help me find a job—he helped me find the right job. That made all the difference.”

Clark now recommends STEP to anyone looking to enter the trades.

“If you’re considering a career in the skilled trades, STEP offers exceptional support, tailored advice, and a team that truly cares about your success.”

Ready to Advance Your Construction Career?

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