B.C. boosts trades training with a $241M investment to expand seats, cut waitlists, and prepare workers for high-demand infrastructure and clean-energy jobs
B.C. Unveils Major $241M Investment in Trades Training
The Government of British Columbia has announced a $241 million investment over three years to expand and modernize trades training across the province. This marks the largest enhancement to the skilled-trades system in nearly 20 years and aims to meet rising workforce demand in construction, clean energy, and major infrastructure projects.
Expanding Seats and Reducing Waitlists
The funding significantly increases training-seat capacity, accelerates certification timelines, and targets high-demand trades where labour shortages are most severe.
Key priorities include:
- Boosting per-seat funding for apprenticeship programs
- Reducing waitlists for critical industrial trades
- Enhancing certification pathways, beginning with crane operators
- Improving worker mobility across sectors
With nearly 50,000 active apprentices and 11,000+ high-school students already enrolled, the investment is expected to open doors for thousands more aspiring trades professionals.
Strong Support From Industry and Training Institutions
The announcement has been widely praised by the Vancouver Regional Construction Association, BCIT, and the B.C. Federation of Labour, who call the investment timely and essential for addressing widespread skilled-labour shortages.
A Long-Term Commitment to Workforce Development
Officials emphasized that the $241 million is a permanent expansion, not a temporary allocation. By increasing access to training and speeding up certification for high-demand roles, the province aims to create a resilient, job-ready workforce that will support B.C.’s long-term economic growth.
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