WHY CHOOSE A CAREER IN THE SKILLED TRADES?
Skilled tradespeople are in high demand across British Columbia, which means competitive salaries and unparalleled job security. STEP’s apprenticeship placement program helps the next generation of skilled tradespeople gain the experience they need to embark on a rewarding career with countless advancement opportunities.
Choose a career that makes a difference, and build your future by helping us build a future for all of BC.
250,000
Number of people employed by BC’s construction sector
10%
Amount contributed annually to BC’s GDP
THE GROWING DEMAND FOR SKILLED TRADES IN BC
With an ongoing shortage of qualified skilled tradespeople in BC, the demand for skilled trade workers continues to grow, and employers across the BC construction industry are struggling to find qualified tradespeople to keep up with demand.
STEP’s employment placement program fills that gap by matching skilled tradespeople with workplace opportunities where they can get the hands-on training and certification they need to embark on a rewarding career in the construction industry.
HOW SKILLED TRADES CONTRIBUTE TO BC’S ECONOMY
The construction industry is one of BC’s largest economic sectors, employing nearly 250,000 people and contributing 10% annually to the province’s GDP. Skilled trades professionals are the foundation of this industry, building the homes, businesses, and infrastructure we need to keep BC’s economy growing.
From housing developments in urban centers to highway expansions, bridges, and energy projects across the province, skilled trade workers are essential to BC’s economic growth, and the demand for their skills is at an all-time high.
By training and supporting the next generation of skilled tradespeople, STEP is helping to build a better, more prosperous future for both the province and all its skilled trade workers. So take that first STEP, and connect with us to explore skilled trade training and apprenticeship opportunities!
FIND YOUR TRADE
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SKILLED TRADE FAQs
Still have questions about skilled trade work and apprenticeship opportunities in BC? We have answers.
What are Red Seal Skilled Trades?
Red Seal Skilled Trades are skilled trades that meet a national standard of excellence across Canada. The Red Seal Program was created to ensure that tradespeople have the skills and knowledge needed to work anywhere in the country without needing additional certification. It’s the highest level of trade qualification in Canada and a mark of expertise that employers recognize and value.
Which skilled trades are in demand in Canada?
Canada is currently experiencing a significant shortage of skilled trades labour across various sectors. This is being driven by factors such as an aging workforce, new infrastructure projects, and new advancements in technology. This demand presents numerous opportunities for individuals considering a career in the skilled trades. Some of the most in-demand trades include:
- Electricians: With ongoing infrastructure projects and urban development, electricians are essential for installing and maintaining electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
- Plumbers: The need for plumbers remains high due to continuous construction and the maintenance of existing plumbing systems in homes and businesses.
- Carpenters: Carpenters are vital for constructing and renovating buildings, contributing significantly to the booming construction industry.
Which skilled trade is right for me?
Choosing the right skilled trade depends on your interests, strengths, and career goals. So when you’re deciding what skilled trade to pursue as a career, you should ask yourself a few key questions, such as:
- Do you like working with your hands? If you like building, fixing, and creating, a career in the skilled trades could be a great fit for you. Whether you’re interested in construction, mechanical systems, or technical installations, there are countless opportunities to learn by doing including careers in Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing, and Sheet Metal.
- Do you prefer operating or working on machinery? If you like operating or fixing things, you might want to consider a career as a Heavy Equipment Operator, Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, Industrial Mechanic / Millwright, or HVAC Technician / Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic.
- Are you interested in design or precision work? If problem-solving and detailed craftsmanship appeal to you, you should consider Cabinetmaker, Welder, Machinist, Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Mechanic, or Sheet Metal Worker.
- Do you want to work outdoors? Some trades such as Metal Fabrication typically take place in indoor environments, while others like Carpentry and Ironworking often involve outdoor work in various weather conditions.
- Do you want to work in a High-Demand Field? If job security and opportunity are your priorities, then you should look into working as an Electrician, Plumber, Sheet Metal Worker, or Carpenter.
- What kind of lifestyle are you looking for? Would you prefer a steady Monday-to-Friday schedule, or does a rotation like three weeks on and one week off sound more appealing? Trades like Industrial Mechanic / Millwright, Electrician, and Heavy Equipment Operators often work in remote camps and could be a great fit depending on your goals.
- Are you willing to travel for school? Advancing in your trade may require travel for training, so it’s worth considering what trades training options are available in your community.
- Do you have any health considerations? For example, trades like Welding may require wearing a respirator for long periods, which could be a factor for anyone with respiratory concerns.
- Are you comfortable working at heights? Some trades like Carpentry, Roofing, Electrical, and Ironworking often require you to work high above the ground. If heights make you uneasy, you may want to explore other trades that keep your feet more firmly on the ground.
Think about what type of work excites you. Research job opportunities in your area. Consider a workplace apprenticeship program that lets you earn while you learn. And look at the long-term career potential. No matter which skilled trade you choose, you’ll be entering a stable, high-demand career with opportunities for growth and specialization.
Not sure where to start? STEP can help you figure out which trade matches your interests, strengths, and goals.
How do I find an employer for a skilled trade apprenticeship program?
Not sure where to start? STEP can help! If you haven’t already decided on a trade, consider your career goals and the type of construction work that excites you, whether it’s carpentry, electrical, plumbing, or any other trade. Research job opportunities in your area by exploring job boards, trade schools, and career fairs.
STEP also simplifies this process by providing job seekers with (1) local labour market info and resources, (2) career coaching on how to conduct informational interviews, and (3) matching motivated candidates with skilled trade apprenticeships with construction employers across British Columbia. Our team provides personalized job search support, resume assistance, and direct employer connections to help you start your workplace apprenticeship program and build a successful career in the skilled trades.
How do I become a skilled tradesperson in BC?
A career in the skilled trades offers hands-on work, job security, and excellent earning potential. Whether you’re starting fresh or switching careers, here are some of the most important steps you need to take on your path to becoming a skilled tradesperson in British Columbia.
- Choose Your Trade. With over 80 skilled trades to choose from in BC, finding the right one depends on your interests, strengths, and career goals.
- Start an Apprenticeship. An apprenticeship combines paid, hands-on work experience with classroom learning, and is the most common path to becoming a certified tradesperson.
- Get Your Trade Certification. To become fully certified, you’ll need to (1) work through your apprenticeship by completing the required hours of work experience and technical training, (2) pass a certification exam, and (3) earn your Journeyperson or Red Seal certification if you want to work anywhere in Canada. Some trades don’t require certification, but getting one increases job opportunities and earning potential.
- Build Your Career. Once certified, you can (1) work for top employers in construction, manufacturing, or maintenance, (2) specialize in a high-paying niche like green building or commercial plumbing, or (3) even start your own business and become a contractor.
The demand for skilled trades is only growing, and BC needs qualified skilled trade workers to fill thousands of construction jobs across the province and industry.
GET STARTED WITH STEP
Whether you’re looking to start a new career, switch into a new one, or looking for a trade with excellent pay and job security, the BC construction industry has a place for you. Take that first STEP, and connect with us to explore skilled trade apprenticeship opportunities!
