New Tools Help BC High School Students Jump-Start Trades Careers

BC High SChool Students

June 18, 2018

British Columbia high school students are getting a taste of the trades, and the chance to explore new career paths, thanks to new equipment funding. School districts throughout the province will receive $3.5 million this year to buy new equipment to upgrade trades classrooms and workshops.

“Today’s high school students will be the engine driving B.C.’s economy into the future,” says Melanie Mark, BC’s Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training. “I’m thrilled that government is helping them get early exposure to training for rewarding and good-paying trades careers.”

Fifty-eight school districts will receive funding this year through the Industry Training Authority (ITA’s) Youth Trades Capital Equipment Program. This will allow them to buy modern equipment that improves safety in the classroom, and ensures students are learning on the most up-to-date technology.

“ITA youth initiatives have breathed new life into old shops, and helped shop teachers continue to encourage students to work with their hands and their heads,” says Randy Grey, Careers Program Co-ordinator for Comox Valley School District. ”We are seeing more students each year identifying that a trade is a great way to get a head start in life.”
Graduates have gone on to work in industries including construction, with some currently working on seismic upgrades at the school.

“We’re giving students the tools they need to succeed, and kick-starting successful careers in trades,” says Leonard. “I’m so pleased to see some of them working right here in our hometown.”

Examples of how funding will be spent this year include allowing all grade 7–9 students at Kamloops/Thompson School District to experience applied skills, design and technologies. It will also allow Coast Mountains School District to purchase a van that will bring tools and training to students in distant communities.

“The apprentices and tradespeople that build the communities in which we thrive are invaluable,” says Gary Herman, chief executive officer of the ITA. “That’s why funding programs that equip students with the tools they need to explore and gain skills in skilled trades are so important to B.C.’s future.”

ITA leads and co-ordinates B.C.’s skilled trades system. ITA works with apprentices, employers, industry, labour, training providers and government to fund training, issue credentials, support apprenticeships, set program standards and increase opportunities in the trades.

Related Articles


Latest Articles

  • The Non-Residential Sector Declines in All Three Components Despite Sustained Industrial Permit Level

    The Non-Residential Sector Declines in All Three Components Despite Sustained Industrial Permit Level

    November 4, 2024 The total value of building permits in Canada decreased by $858.1 million (-7.0%) to $11.5 billion in August, following a strong July during which construction intentions rose sharply (+20.8%). The residential and non-residential sectors contributed to the decrease in August. On a constant dollar basis (2017=100), the total value of building permits decreased 7.6% in… Read More…

  • A Slight Decrease in Residential Building Construction for August

    A Slight Decrease in Residential Building Construction for August

    November 4, 2024 Investment in building construction edged up 0.2% to $21.0 billion in August, after a 1.6% decrease in July. The residential sector edged down (-0.1%) to $14.6 billion, while the non-residential sector was up 1.0% to $6.4 billion. Year over year, investment in building construction grew 7.2% in August. On a constant dollar basis (2017=100), investment in building construction was… Read More…

  • When a Familiar Door Closes

    When a Familiar Door Closes

    November 4, 2024 By Keith Sones, seasoned utility industry executive Most of the articles I’ve written have been based on personal experiences, many of them occurring decades ago, which eventually translate into helpful life lessons. The years allow the events to marinate in a savoury stew of time and reflection, clarity never coming immediately, or even… Read More…

  • Regulatory Changes to Manitoba Apprenticeship and Certification System

    Regulatory Changes to Manitoba Apprenticeship and Certification System

    November 4, 2024 Effective October 30, 2024, Manitoba’s apprenticeship and certification system will undergo regulatory changes. These changes aim to enhance responsiveness to industry needs, align with Red Seal standards, and improve the quality of apprentice training and safety. Go HERE for more information Source Read More…


Changing Scene