Lather (Interior 

Systems Mechanic)

Lathers are precise and tactile builders who create the support frameworks for residential and commercial interiors while also installing various building components.  

As a Lather, you’ll enjoy spending your time planning and building the interior structures that make up all sorts of buildings.  

You’ll collaborate with others on the various components and work that go into ceilings and walls. Using your strong math skills, you’ll read blueprints, install materials and support structures, and put together other components, such as fire and sound systems.  

What You'll Learn

  • How to use blueprints 
  • How to prepare wall and ceiling layouts 
  • How to install support frameworks for ceilings and walls 
  • How to cut openings for heating and ventilation piping, ducts and electrical outlets 
  • How to install curtain walls, fire and sound systems and other ceiling and wall components 

Key Job Skills

  • Communications and coordination  
  • Time management  
  • Blueprint and specification reading 
  • Interior material installation 
  • Interior component installation 

Technical Training

To get certified, you will need to sign up for technical training at an approved training provider in addition to on-the-job training. 

Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC for a comprehensive list of what programs are available in your trade at public and non-public schools. 

For a list of all approved non-public training providers, visit this page.

Technical Training 18 weeks over 3 years
Work-Based Training
6000 HOURS
General Skills
Athletic Collaborative Mathematical Precise Tactile

Program Updates

Program Information and Resources

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Lathers (Interior Systems Mechanics) perform job layouts using blueprints and install, handle, erect and apply materials that are component parts in the construction of ceilings and walls. Lathers install support frameworks for ceiling systems, interior and exterior walls, build interior partitions and install drywall and other sheathing on walls and ceilings. They also install curtain walls, fire and sound systems, acoustical installations, access flooring, demountable partitions, shielded walls, and apply building envelope technologies.

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Exam Information and Resources

Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • November 2022: Program Update (2021 Red Seal Occupational Standard (RSOS))
  • A Comparative Analysis detailing the changes between the 2012 National Occupational Analysis (NOA) and the 2021 RSOS can be found here.

Information:

Challenge the Trade

If you have significant work experience in a trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may apply to challenge the certification. Learn more about How to Challenge a Skilled Trade.

OR

If you sponsor apprentices but have never been certified in Canada, you may request to supervise and sign-off apprentices when they are ready to be certified. Please contact customer service for more information.