Carpenter
Carpenter
- How to read blueprints and follow building codes
- How to use construction hand and power tools
- How to measure, cut, shape, assemble and join materials on site
- How to build foundations, install floors, sub-flooring, walls and roofs
- How to install doors, stairs, moulding and hardware
Carpenters build the world around us, from our homes, city centres, and more. They are collaborative and enjoy physical and precise work—as well as the reward of seeing their projects materialize.
As a Carpenter, you’ll work on a wide range of projects, from furnishings to skyscrapers, mastering numerous materials. While you’re a builder, you’ll take satisfaction in the challenging physical and mathematical nature of the work.
You can work for construction companies, in maintenance departments, or for yourself, often working as part of a team of trade professionals on the job site.
28.00
4.00
Training Hours
6360
True
Technical Training
The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province.
Harmonized (2024) Program Information and Resources
Harmonized (2024) Program Information and Resources
In effect starting April 1, 2024
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page.
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms & Formula Sheet
- Code Book required: 2012 or 2018 BC Building Code
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms & Formula Sheet
- Code Book required: 2012 or 2018 BC Building Code
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms and Formula Sheet
- Code Book required: 2012 or 2018 BC Building Code
- Red Seal Occupational Standard 2022
- Red Seal Exam Preparation Guide
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (online)
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
- Acronym Sheet (PDF)
- Formula Sheet (PDF)
- Code book provided: National Building Code of Canada - 2020, Part 9 (Volume 2)
Program and Exam Updates
July 2025: OPSN 2025 012 (Carpenter Level 1, 2 and 3 SLE Launch)
February 2024: Carpenter Standardized Level Exams on-hold pending alignment to the 2024 Carpenter Program Outline and 2024 British Columbia Building Code. The level challenge process and trade challenge pathway are not impacted. Please see this Program Update for details.
November 2022: For more information regarding transition, please see the Program Update
March 2023: OPSN-2022-015.1 (Revised Implementation Date)
November 2022: Program Update (Competency Migration Chart)
August 2022: OPSN 2022-015 (Updated Program Profile and Program Outline)
March 2022: All Current (pre-harmonized) levels have been phased out. Apprentices who have completed Current Level 2 (CL2) or Current Level 3 (CL3) and are interested in registering for Harmonized Level 3 (HL3) or Harmonized Level 4 (HL4) of training are asked to contact their Apprenticeship Advisor before registering to discuss potential gaps in their training. Please see the Transition Update or the Transition Plan for details.
July 2025: OPSN 2025 012 (Carpenter Level 1, 2 and 3 SLE Launch)
February 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2022 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2013 NOA and 2022 RSOS can be found here.
Challenge the Certification Exam
Challenge the Certification Exam
If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program.
If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level.
Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.
Online Application
Create a SkilledTradesBC Portal account to start your application
Declaration Forms Instructions
A section-by-section guide on how to complete the declaration forms
Employer Declaration
A form for your employer to document and attest to your work experience
Statutory Declaration
A form for you to document and attest to your work experience from self-employment or because a direct supervisor cannot be contacted
- Critical thinking and coordination
- Hand and power tool operation
- Construction site layout
- Formwork and framing
- Finishing materials
Certification challenge only trade
1
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Cabinetmaker
Cabinetmaker
- How to interpret architectural drawings
- How to use woodworking machines and hand tools
- How to build, repair and re-style wooden furniture, cabinets, and fixtures
- How to sand surfaces and apply veneer and stain
- How to calculate dimensions and estimate materials and costs
Cabinetmakers, also known as Joiners, are creative builders who turn natural materials into finished products. They enjoy working with others to develop beautiful and functional furnishings.
As a Cabinetmaker, you’ll draw on your math skills and creativity to develop products that are not only functional, but also reflect your signature style. You’ll enjoy the physical challenge of working with wood and becoming deeply familiar with the different materials and tools at your disposal.
You might find yourself in a workshop alongside other Cabinetmakers, or on a construction site.
24.00
4.00
Training Hours
6480
False
Technical Training
The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province.
Harmonized Program Information and Resources
Harmonized Program Information and Resources
In effect starting September 1, 2023
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page.
Code book required: none
Code book required: none
Code book required: none
Red Seal Exam Breakdown (online)
Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
Code book provided: None
Program Information
Program Information
Pre-Harmonization Program Information
Program and Exam Updates
October 2025: Transition Update: Harmonized Level 4
November 2024: Transition Update: Harmonized Level 3
December 2023: Transition Update: Harmonized Level 2
August 2023: For information regarding transition, please see the Program Update and Transition Plan
March 2023: OPSN-2022-024.1 (Revised Implementation Date)
September 2022: A new Program Outline and Program Profile have been posted. Please see OPSN 2022 024 for details.
November 2021: Program Update: Revised Harmonization dates
March 2025: Standardized Level Exams (SLEs) for Levels 1, 2, and 3 will be implemented on March 31, 2025. Please see OPSN 2025 002 for details.
October 2023: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2021 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2012 NOA and 2021 RSOS can be found here.
Challenge the Certification Exam
Challenge the Certification Exam
If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program.
If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level.
Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.
Online Application
Create a SkilledTradesBC Portal account to start your application
Declaration Forms Instructions
A section-by-section guide on how to complete the declaration forms
Employer Declaration
A form for your employer to document and attest to your work experience
Statutory Declaration
A form for you to document and attest to your work experience from self-employment or because a direct supervisor cannot be contacted
- Active listening and monitoring
- Operating woodworking machines and hand tools
- Product assembly and construction
- Preparing cost estimates
- Finish application
Certification challenge only trade
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Bricklayer
Bricklayer
- How to read blueprints and calculate required materials
- How to cut and trim bricks to specification using hand and power tools
- How to prepare and lay bricks and other materials
- How to construct and install prefabricated masonry
- How to restore and repair existing masonry
Bricklayers build the sturdy and beautiful masonry that has made up our homes and buildings for centuries. They are tradespeople who enjoy the physical challenge of their job, as well as the artistry.
As a Bricklayer, you’ll enjoy working with your hands as you carefully cut and install brick, stone and other materials.
Your precise and mathematical nature ensures you can make these materials work in many settings. Your physical dexterity keeps you on track, as you manage tasks that range from simple structures to elaborate buildings. You’ll also appreciate the creative side of your work.
18.00
3.00
Training Hours
4860
False
Technical Training
The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province.
Program Information and Resources
Program Information and Resources
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page.
None
In addition to the written examinations, candidates are required to undertake a practical assessment at each level. Details of the assessment criteria are contained below.
Please note that there is a fee attached to the practical assessment which is set by the assessment agency and will be approximately $500.
To book a practical assessment, contact Trowel Trades Association at: Phone: 604-580-2463 Toll Free: 1-844-480-2463
Program and Exam Updates
May 2022: Program Update (Posted Practical Assessment details)
September 2021: Harmonized Program in effect
June 2021: Program Update (Transition)
April 2021: OPSN 2021 002 (Harmonization)
October 2023: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2021 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2015 NOA and 2021 RSOS can be found here.
August 2022: OPSN 2022 016 (HL1 SLE launch)
August 2022: OPSN 2022 020 (HL2 SLE launch)
September 1, 2021: OPSN 2021 010 (Level 3 SLE discontinued)
Challenge the Certification Exam
Challenge the Certification Exam
If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program.
If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level.
Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.
Online Application
Create a SkilledTradesBC Portal account to start your application
Declaration Forms Instructions
A section-by-section guide on how to complete the declaration forms
Employer Declaration
A form for your employer to document and attest to your work experience
Statutory Declaration
A form for you to document and attest to your work experience from self-employment or because a direct supervisor cannot be contacted
- Critical thinking and coordination
- Time management
- Physical fitness
- Blueprint interpretation
- Masonry tools and materials
Certification challenge only trade
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Boilermaker Endorsement: Marine Fitter
Boilermaker Endorsement:
Marine Fitter
- How to read ship drawings
- How to lay out and mark bending and cutting lines on plate and sheet steel
- How to set up heavy metal working machines
- How to fit metal parts and other components
- How to construct and repair ship structures
Marine Fitters are precise and collaborative tradespeople whose expert work with metal and other components are essential to the creation and repair of the ships that transport people and goods.
As a Marine Fitter, you’ll play an important role creating and repairing the many vessels that navigate our world.
Drawing on your math skills and precision, you’ll build, maintain and repair everything from small boats to ocean liners. You’ll enjoy the collaborative nature of this career, which interacts with a large range of tradespeople.
8.00
2.00
Training Hours
2460
False
Technical Training
The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province.
Program Information
Program Information
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page.
Code Book provided: none
Program and Exam Updates
December 2017: SkilledTradesBC has launched a program for Boilermaker Endorsement: Marine Fitter. For details refer to OPSN 2017 021.
Challenge the Certification Exam
Challenge the Certification Exam
If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program.
If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level.
Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.
Online Application
Create a SkilledTradesBC Portal account to start your application
Declaration Forms Instructions
A section-by-section guide on how to complete the declaration forms
Employer Declaration
A form for your employer to document and attest to your work experience
Statutory Declaration
A form for you to document and attest to your work experience from self-employment or because a direct supervisor cannot be contacted
- Critical thinking
- Problem solving
- Work health and safety
- Metal installation and repairs
- Equipment operation
Certification challenge only trade
1
Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.
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Boilermaker
Boilermaker
- How to read blueprints and specifications
- How to lay out and mark bending and cutting lines on plate and sheet steel
- How to set up heavy metal working machines
- How to fit and weld metal parts
- How to erect, install and repair boilers and other products
Boilermakers are attentive and precise tradespeople who create and maintain the structures that heat, store and transfer essential resources. They possess a wide range of skills to fit a unique role.
As a Boilermaker you’ll make, test and repair a wide range of items—from boilers to vessels, heat exchangers and other heavy-metal structures.
You’ll bring a diverse skillset to each task, as you weld, fit, repair and install boilers and other products. This will require you to draw on your precise nature, strong math skills and creativity as you work out blueprints and specifications.
15.00
3.00
Training Hours
4950
False
Technical Training
The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province.
Program Information and Resources
Program Information and Resources
Effective April 1, 2026
Program Information and Resources
Program Information and Resources
Effective until March 31, 2026
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page.
This program does not have a Standardized Level Exam for Level 1.
- Exam Breakdown
- Code Book required: none
- Red Seal Occupational Standard
- Red Seal Exam Preparation Guide
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (online)
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
- Code Book provided: none
Program and Exam Updates
September 2025: OPSN 2025 020 (Revised Program Outline and Profile effective April 1, 2026. For implementation details, please refer to the Implementation plan attached to the OPSN.)
None
Challenge the Certification Exam
Challenge the Certification Exam
If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program.
If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level.
Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.
Online Application
Create a SkilledTradesBC Portal account to start your application
Declaration Forms Instructions
A section-by-section guide on how to complete the declaration forms
Employer Declaration
A form for your employer to document and attest to your work experience
Statutory Declaration
A form for you to document and attest to your work experience from self-employment or because a direct supervisor cannot be contacted
- Critical thinking
- Problem solving
- Metal fabrication
- Boiler construction, installation and repairs
- Equipment operation
Certification challenge only trade
1
Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.
Start Your Apprenticeship
Welder
Welder
- How to perform basic trade-related mathematical calculations
- How to use automatic and semi-automatic cutting machines
- How to read and interpret welding drawings
- How to perform welding inspections and testing procedures
- How to perform a range of welding techniques
Welders are precise and physical individuals who enjoy the challenge of working with intense focus and hot temperatures. They are the masters of metal, fusing metals into all positions.
As a Welder, you’ll get to meld, attach and affix pieces of metal together with precision, watching objects come to life in your hands.
You’ll learn how to use a variety of manual and computerized equipment. As you progress, your opportunities will open up pathways to become an expert in areas such as pressure welding, custom fabrication—and more.
26.00
3.00
Training Hours
4620
True
Program Updates
Certified welders may apply to Technical Safety BC for their pressure welder certificate of qualification, provided they meet eligibility criteria and pass the standardized certification exam. Once certified as pressure welders, individuals must complete additional performance qualification test(s) in accordance with any registered welding procedure specification in order to perform pressure welding in BC.
Program Updates
None
Optional Endorsement
The Welder Endorsement - Multi-Process Alloy Welding enables a welder to weld specialized alloys, by any manual welding process, in any position, and such other work as is usually done by a Red Seal Certified Welder.
To register for this program you must hold either a Welder – Certificate of Qualification with Interprovincial Red Seal Endorsement OR a Welder B – Certificate of Qualification with Interprovincial Red Seal Endorsement.
Learn more about the MPAW Endorsement.
Program Information and Resources
Program Information and Resources
Program Outline
Guidelines for delivery of technical training at SkilledTradesBC Recognized Training Providers
Foundation Outline
Guidelines for the delivery of pre-apprenticeship training at SkilledTradesBC Recognized Training Providers
Practical Skills Checklist
Tool to identify an apprentice’s skill level prior to registering for technical training.
Welder Logbook Information Sheet
Welders use a logbook to record training, competencies, certifications, endorsements and employment history.
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Updates:
- None
Information:
- National Occupational Analysis
- Red Seal Exam Preparation Guide
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (online)
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
- Code Book required: none
Challenge the Trade
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.
Welder Practical Examination for Trade Qualifiers
The Welder Challenge Pathway requires written and practical examinations to achieve Welder certification in British Columbia. Trade qualifiers challenging the Welder certification must successfully pass the written examination (Welder Interprovincial Red Seal) with a score of 70% or higher before applying to complete the practical examination.
- Precision
- Coordination
- Basic drafting
- Basic metallurgy
- Specialized tools and equipment
Certification challenge only trade
1
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.
Welder Endorsement: Multi-Process Alloy Welding (MPAW)
Welder Endorsement
Multi-Process Alloy Welding (MPAW)
- How to describe and identify specialized welding processes
- How to interpret and apply mechanical drawings and layout components
- How to fabricate weldments
- How to use the Shielded Metal Arc Welding process on low-carbon steel plate and pipe and stainless steel
- How to use the Gas Tungsten Arc Welding process for stainless steel
Multi-Process Alloy Welders combine the skills all welders learn to master and then pushing them to the next level with expertise in specialized alloys and welding processes.
As a Multi-Process Alloy Welder (MPAW), you’ll enjoy the challenge that comes with taking your welding skills to the next level.
You’ll test your precision and coordination, as you learn to master specialized welding techniques. Identifying these next-level skills and the types of metals they work with will require focus, and collaboration as you work out the best solution for each task.
5.00
1.00
Training Hours
900
False
Program Updates
March 31, 2017: OPSN 2016 014 (New Program Outline in effect)
Note: Changes to the Welder program have impacted MPAW endorsement training content. Please refer to the Outline review details attached to the OPSN.
Exam Resources
To register for this program, you must hold either a Welder – Certificate of Qualification with Interprovincial Red Seal Endorsement or a Welder B – Certificate of Qualification with Interprovincial Red Seal Endorsement. This advanced level of training will appear as an endorsement on the original Welder Certificate of Qualification.
For more information on the Welder program please refer to the Welder program page.
Program Information
Program Information
Challenge the Trade
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.
- Precision
- Coordination
- Basic Metallurgy
- Weldment fabrication
- Specialized welding processes
Certification challenge only trade
1
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.
Architectural Sheet Metal Worker
Architectural Sheet
Metal Worker
- How to use tools, scaffolds, ladders and platforms
- How to use fasteners and sealants
- How to interpret drawings and specifications
- How to identify metals, support structures and building systems
- How to install and repair metal
Architectural Sheet Metal Workers shape and install the metal that makes up the buildings around us. They are creative problem-solvers, supporting complex systems that keep things running smoothly.
As an Architectural Sheet Metal Worker, you’ll get to build complex and satisfying systems that provide an essential function for the buildings around them.
Working collaboratively with other tradespeople, you’ll find yourself on large commercial and industrial sites or residential areas, where you’ll mix mathematics, problem-solving and physical activity to complete each task.
18.00
3.00
Training Hours
4800
False
Technical Training
The classroom is where you learn the technical knowledge to complement your work-based training. Make sure to register as early as possible to secure a seat for technical training with a SkilledTradesBC-designated training provider.
Visit Trades Training BC and EducationPlannerBC to find where this program is being offered across the province.
Program Information
Program Information
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below. Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page.
Acronym and Formula Sheet (Implementation: August 25, 2025)
Acronym and Formula Sheet (Implementation: August 25, 2025)
Program and Exam Updates
August 2025: Program Update (Revised Program Outline, and Level 1 and 2 Standardized Level Exams)
January 2019: Program Update (Cross-program credits)
None
Challenge the Certification Exam
Challenge the Certification Exam
If you have work experience in the trade but have never been certified in Canada, you may be eligible to challenge the certification exam as a Trade Qualifier to become certified without going through an apprenticeship program.
If you have some practical experience but do not yet qualify for the certification exam, you may be eligible to challenge a level exam to enter the program at the appropriate level.
Check the Program Profile on this page for the available pathway options and eligibility details.
Online Application
Create a SkilledTradesBC Portal account to start your application
Declaration Forms Instructions
A section-by-section guide on how to complete the declaration forms
Employer Declaration
A form for your employer to document and attest to your work experience
Statutory Declaration
A form for you to document and attest to your work experience from self-employment or because a direct supervisor cannot be contacted
- Math
- Problem-solving
- Welding and soldering
- Metal fabricating and installation
- Building system identification
Certification challenge only trade
1
Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.
Start Your Apprenticeship