Discover the Success Stories

Natasha Hanson was making a decent living as a lifeguard, but felt the pull to explore something new. She recently completed her Level 1 technical training and is thriving as an electrician apprentice. 

When Elizabeth Moses describes sheet metal work – her eyes light up and you can hear in her voice how excited and curious she is about her trade. She is passionate about inspiring more women and underrepresented groups to explore a career in the skilled trades, and building a more diverse, inclusive workforce.  

Meet Jessica, a Red Seal Metal Fabricator. From a flat sheet of metal to a vessel ready for the water, her work showcases the craftsmanship and pride that comes with mastering her trade.

With the guidance of instructors, students build and deliver commissioned projects for the community, while completing their Level 1 technical training before graduation.

This program has been running successfully for decades, providing a fully-funded head start to aspiring young carpenters in launching their apprenticeships and advancing their careers.

Through the Youth Train in Trades Program, Maya Diamond began her journey into carpentry, inspired by working on projects with her dad growing up. 

Finding the next generation of tradespersons is key to fill labour gaps and employers like Jessie Bloomfield are passionate about guiding and developing young talent. 

Ty Edwards, a Red Seal Heavy Duty Equipment Technician, kickstarted his trades career in high school. Growing up on a farm, he always had a passion for working with his hands and found joy in fixing machines that serve critical roles in our economy and communities. 

As a Red Seal Baker and Skills Canada BC Gold Medalist, Shoshawna Blair not only whisks up delicious treats, but also advocates passionately for aspiring students in the skilled trades.  

Ryan Thran is a big supporter of youth apprenticeship. In his 33 years at Knappett Projects Inc., he’s helped mentor and develop dozens of apprentices into certified journeypersons and wants to see more. As a Red Seal Carpenter, he has gone through the apprenticeship pathway with Knappett himself and hopes he can inspire others to take on an apprenticeship.