Trades professionals are the foundation for building the future of BC, and they are in demand now more than ever. The StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan is a generational commitment to accelerating talent and skills training throughout the province.
TradeUpBC brings together British Columbia’s post-secondary institutes to help experienced tradespeople and employers remain resilient, adaptable, and inclusive by providing access to microcredentials and professional development courses. These courses will assist tradespeople and employers in advancing their careers, strengthening their businesses, creating welcoming worksites for everyone, and ensuring they are prepared for future opportunities.
TradeUpBC is a provincially-funded initiative that connects tradespeople to courses at BC post-secondary institutes.
The sectors listed below provide information on available programs, courses, and accredited education institute partners across British Columbia and the Yukon. Choose your industry and start planning your future today!
The Battery Electric Vehicle Technology and Service course prepares Automotive Service Technicians (AST) to safely diagnose and service high-voltage electric vehicles. Red Seal certified Automotive Service Technicians and Heavy Duty (HD) Technicians, or registered SkilledTradesBC AST/HD third- or fourth-year apprentices, can build on their previous understanding of conventional vehicle systems to develop skills in preparation for the exponential increase in electric vehicles on our roads.
To ensure project success, contractors must be able to provide accurate and professional estimates of costs and materials. The Introduction to Construction Estimating course will provide learners with skills and knowledge related to estimating practices and help them understand the importance of estimating as one of the key first steps in any construction job. The lesson modules cover a wide range of topics, with interactive activities based on real-life field situations to help reinforce the lessons.
This course is designed to build participant confidence in performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) skills in a team environment for professionals with a duty to respond. Learn the important steps to perform a rapid assessment, perform Basic Life Support (BLS) skills, and perform rapid defibrillation, inclduing the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). 1-year certification.
Financial Accounting I is an introductory course in accounting from the basic accounting equation to the preparation of the income statement, statement of owner’s equity and balance sheet. This course covers merchandise operations, valuation and control of cash, temporary investments and receivables, inventories and cost of goods sold, principles of internal control and capital assets. Includes important accounting principles and concepts as well as the classification of accounts. The use of special journals, worksheets and computerized accounting is also covered.
This micro-credential is ideal for aspiring entrepreneurs eager to establish, manage, and grow a new business venture. Students will gain essential skills in organizing and running a business, navigating uncertainties, and working toward profitability. Emphasis is placed on viewing small businesses as potential social enterprises’ commercial ventures with strong social objectives.
TradeUpBC has identified seven key areas of demand aimed at supporting certified or experienced trades workers and employers through specialized training programs. The programs offered on the TradeUpBC website are designed to complement apprentice training rather than replace it.
Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Mechanic, Business Owner
From high school to apprentice, then certified tradesperson to business owner, Logan Henson’s journey is a great example of the power of ongoing education to advance careers and open exciting new pathways for both experienced tradespeople and the business owners who employ them.
Plumber
Wallis Plumpton is kind of surprised. The 36-year-old has just entered year three of the four-year BC plumbing apprenticeship program and is excited about the future. This is a story of discovery, full of twists and turns with some surprises along the way.
