Boom Truck Operator: (Folding Boom Unlimited Tonnage)
Boom Truck Operator
(Folding Boom Unlimited Tonnage)
- How to conduct crane operations within safety guidelines
- How to employ proper rigging and lifting techniques
- How to calculate lifting methods
- How to transport and deliver a boom truck
- How to plan a site
Boom Truck Operators (Folding Boom Unlimited Tonnage) move and lift the essential items and resources needed to build and repair a wide range of structures. They’re confident drivers and safety experts.
As a Boom Truck Operator (Folding Boom Unlimited Tonnage) you’ll use your coordination skills to lift and hoist items. You’ll operate a complex piece of machinery, well-suited to placing loads on a smaller worksite, either on the ground or your truck deck. Every job requires your careful approach. You’ll demonstrate mental stamina—thriving when faced with complex tasks that demand great concentration.
BC Crane Safety registration is required for all crane operators in British Columbia. Crane Operator certification in British Columbia is mandatory by virtue of the provincial Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (WorkSafeBC). BC Crane Safety Registration forms are available on the BC Crane Safety website.
Program Updates
August 2024: OPSN 2024 017 (Changes to practical assessment prerequisites)
June 2021: OPSN 2021 007 (Minimum operating requirement clarifications)
Practical Assessment Information
To book a practical assessment, please contact Fulford Certification
Program Information
Program Information
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
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.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience.
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Workplace safety
- Excellent driving skills
- Hand-eye coordination
- Boom truck operations
- Rigging and lifting skills
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.
Automotive Service Technician
Automotive Service
Technician
- How to inspect, diagnose and service cars and light trucks
- How to repair engines, steering systems, braking systems, vehicle suspensions, electrical systems and more
- How to use computerized diagnostic equipment to test and adjust key vehicle components
- How to perform preventative maintenance, including wheel alignments, oil changes and tune-ups
Automotive Service Technicians combine a love of vehicles with a deep understanding of mechanics. They make fixing the vehicles we all depend on look easy, ensuring that every vehicle is cared for.
As an Automotive Service Technician, you’ll work in a garage or on a factory floor with vehicles of all shapes and sizes—from a vintage roadster to an electric car.
You can work for a vehicle manufacturing company, a dealer, or anywhere else vehicles are serviced. Every vehicle is different and it’s up to you to isolate the problem, find a solution and send drivers safely on their way.
Program Updates
March 2024: OPSN 2024 009 (2024 Program Launch, Updated Program Profile, Program Outlines, and Competency Migration Chart)
August 2022: An updated AST Single Credential Program Profile and Outline were implemented on January 1, 2023. Please see OPSN 2022 019 for details.
October 2021: 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.
Program Information (2024) and Resources
Program Information (2024) 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
Record Book
An easy-to-use tool to help you identify your trades training needs, track your progress, and move towards certification.
Exam Information and Resources
Updates:
- March 2023: Standardized Level Exams (SLEs) for levels 1, 2, and 3 were implemented as of January 1, 2023. Please see program update for details.
- August 2022: Standardized Level Exams (SLEs) for levels 1, 2, and 3 will be implemented on January 1, 2023. Please see OPSN 2022 019 for details.
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Code Book required: none
Updates:
- March 2023: Standardized Level Exams (SLEs) for levels 1, 2, and 3 were implemented as of January 1, 2023. Please see program update for details.
- August 2022: Standardized Level Exams (SLEs) for levels 1, 2, and 3 will be implemented on January 1, 2023. Please see OPSN 2022 019 for details.
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Code Book required: none
Updates:
- August 2024: Standardized Level Exam (SLE) for level 3 will be implemented on September 1, 2024. Please see OPSN 2024 016 for details.
- March 2023: Standardized Level Exams (SLEs) for levels 1, 2, and 3 were implemented as of January 1, 2023. Please see program update for details.
- August 2022: Standardized Level Exams (SLEs) for levels 1, 2, and 3 will be implemented on January 1, 2023. Please see OPSN 2022 019 for details.
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms
- Code Book required: none
Updates:
- None
Information:
- Red Seal Occupational Standard
- Red Seal Exam Preparation Guide
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (online)
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
- Code Book provided: none
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
Record Book
An easy-to-use tool to help you identify your trades training needs, track your progress, and move towards certification.
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.
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.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Vehicle repair and maintenance
- Troubleshooting
- Specialized tools and equipment
- Brake, steering, suspension and electrical systems
- Engine mechanics and components
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.
Auto Body and Collision Technician
Auto Body and
Collision Technician
- How to review damage reports and estimates
- How to analyze and diagnose structural damage
- How to fix exterior damage and replace body components
- How to fix interior seats, carpets and floorboards
- How to inspect and test-drive vehicles for proper alignment and handling
Auto Body and Collision Technicians are hands-on, systematic thinkers who take great satisfaction in fixing the vehicles we depend on. They are analytical and resourceful, capable of tackling it all.
As an Auto Body and Collision Technician, you’ll draw from your love of intricate systems and mechanics to get damaged vehicles back on the road.
You’ll work alongside other vehicle enthusiasts, whose interest in automotive technology coincides with problem-solving. While you enjoy mastering a complex body of knowledge, you’ll find even more satisfaction from the fact that no 2 jobs are the same.
Harmonized Program Information and Resources
Harmonized Program Information and Resources
In effect starting April 1, 2021
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Updates:
- June 2022: OPSN 2022 011 (Harmonized Level 1 SLE Launch)
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms
- Code book required: none
Updates:
- February 2023: OPSN 2023 001 (Harmonized Level 2 SLE Launch)
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms
- Code book required: none
Updates:
January 2024: OPSN 2024 001 (Harmonized Level 3 SLE Launch)
Information:
Code book required: none
Updates:
- March 2023: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2019 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)) A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2014 National Occupational Analysis (NOA) and 2019 RSOS can be found here.
Information:
- Red Seal Occupational Standard (2019)
- Red Seal Exam Preparation Guide
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (online)
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
- Code Book provided: none
Program Information
Program Information
Information for the Current (pre-harmonized) program (Motor Vehicle Body Repairer)
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.
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.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Auto Body repair and maintenance
- Troubleshooting
- Surface preparation and refinishing
- Auto Body construction and components
- Insurance estimating
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.
Truck and Transport Mechanic
Truck and Transport
Mechanic
- How to inspect, diagnose and service highway buses and trucks
- How to repair vehicle systems related to fuel, brakes, steering and suspension, transmission, emission control and exhaust, and cooling and climate control
- How to use computerized diagnostic equipment to test vehicle performance
- How to perform preventative maintenance, including oil changes and tune-ups
Truck and Transport Mechanics are systematic fixers who keep the many commercial transport trucks we see on our highways running safely and smoothly.
As a Truck and Transport Mechanic, you’ll be immersed in your work—testing, fixing and maintaining highway trucks and buses.
You’ll diagnose large vehicles to identify issues and flag areas for repair. You’ll work either indoors in a busy shop or outdoors in a range of environments. It's a career with time-sensitive work, as you ensure the safe operation of these vehicles.
Program Updates
- December 2023: Program Update (Competency Migration Chart)
- November 2023: For more information regarding transition, please see the Program Update.
- June 2023: OPSN 2023-008 (Updated Program Profile and Program Outline)
- April 2023: Program Update (Revised Target Implementation Date).
- OPSN Archives
Harmonized (2024) Program Information and Resources
Harmonized (2024) Program Information and Resources
In effect starting April 1, 2024
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 Provider
Record Book
An easy-to-use tool to help you identify your trades training needs, track you progress, and move towards certification.
Exam Information and Resources
Find exam-related information and resources under each menu item below.
Updates:
- March 2024: OPSN 2024 006 (HMT Common Core Level 1 SLE Launch)
Information:
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms & Formulas Sheet
- Code Book required: none
Updates:
- November 2022: Updated Interprovincial Red Seal exams will be implemented on November 18, 2022. The exams are aligned to the 2015 National Occupational Analysis. For more details please see the program update.
Information:
- National Occupational Analysis
- Red Seal Exam Preparation Guide
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (online)
- Red Seal Exam Breakdown (pdf)
- Code Book provided: 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.
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.
Instructions
How to apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Troubleshooting and monitoring
- Cutting and welding equipment use
- Hydraulic, power and air brakes servicing
- Frames, steering and suspension diagnostics
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning repair
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.
Water Well Driller
Water Well
Driller
- How to review client needs and proposed locations for water wells
- How to operate water well drilling rigs
- How to install, test and maintain water well pumps, piping systems, well screens, casings and other well fixtures
- How to clean and disinfect wells in preparation for use
- How to conduct routine maintenance on equipment
Water Well Drillers are water experts who know how to identify water drilling locations and install, fix and maintain the valuable infrastructure that carries our most essential natural resource.
As a Water Well Driller, you’ll enjoy working outdoors as you operate specialized equipment to drill residential, commercial and industrial water wells.
Your role requires a calm and confident hand, as you’ll not only help customers select a drilling site and estimate the cost, but also identify safe, potable water and know how to clean and disinfect wells in preparation for use.
For further information on this trade and for a detailed list of learning materials please contact BC Ground Water Association on 604-530-8934 (Toll free within BC: 1-855-530-8934) and at secretary [at] bcgwa.org (secretary[at]bcgwa[dot]org)
Program Information and Resources
Program Information and Resources
Program Outline
Guidelines for delivery of technical training
Occupational Analysis Chart
Describes the scope of competencies for the trade. The CofQ exam was developed to assess the competencies listed in this chart.
Exam Breakdown
Shows the approximate percentage of weighting per General Area of Competency (GAC)
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.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Critical thinking and monitoring
- Repair and maintenance
- Safety requirements and procedures
- Equipment operation
- Welding, cutting and drilling
Winder Electrician
Winder
Electrician
Please note that this program is only available for those wishing to challenge certification. There is no apprenticeship pathway at this time.
Occupational Description
Winder Electricians test, rewind, recondition, rebuild, replace and generally service electric motors, generators, alternators, transformers, control equipment, mobile machines and other related components in commercial, institutional and industrial establishments.
BC apprentices registered in this program must take their technical training in Alberta. Click here to view the Program Outline for technical training in Alberta.
Click here to view the training schedule in Alberta.
Program Updates
September 2022: OPSN 2022 022 (CofQ Exam Launched)
February 2021: The transition update announces changes to the de-designation date of the Red Seal Program. For updated transition details, see the transition plan.
May 2020: For details of changes to the program, see OPSN 2020 004
Program and Exam Information
Program and Exam 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.
Challenge Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
Appliance Service Technician
Appliance Service
Technician
- How to assess appliances for issues
- How to identify electrical system requirements
- How to repair, install and maintain appliances
- How to create work and cost estimates
- How to interact with customers
Appliance Service Technicians are highly analytical and mechanical thinkers who keep the many modern inventions we enjoy—from fridges to washers and microwaves—functioning safely and efficiently.
As an Appliance Service Technician, you’ll enjoy the challenge and variation each day brings.
Your expert knowledge in electrical systems and mechanics, combined with your hands-on nature, make you well-equipped to deal with the challenges of modern technology. You’ll regularly test and repair complex appliances, using advanced equipment and techniques that draw on your resourceful nature.
Program Updates
Note: Technical training is not a requirement for the apprenticeship pathway of this program. However, technical training is available through the Appliance Service Technician Foundation program. Please refer to the Foundation Program Standards section within the program profile for details.
Interprovincial Exam Resources
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.
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.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Appliance repair and maintenance
- Troubleshooting
- Customer relations
- Workplace and electrical safety
- Electrical principles, components and equipment
Technical training is not a requirement for the apprenticeship pathway of this program. However, technical training is available through the Appliance Service Technician Foundation program. Please refer to the Foundation Program Standards section within the program profile for details.
Asphalt Paving/Laydown Technician
Asphalt Paving/
Laydown Technician
- How to work safely around asphalt trucks and equipment
- How to identify road structures
- How to describe asphalt production and products
- How to determine asphalt mix and design
- How to operate milling, reclaiming, paving, screed, raking and compacting equipment
Asphalt Paving/Laydown Technicians are confident, calm and coordinated tradespeople who build and repair the roads around us—and whose efforts ensure that we have safe surfaces to drive on.
As an Asphalt Paving/Laydown Technician, you’ll enjoy repairing and making the roads we depend on.
You thrive in an outdoor environment and can concentrate on operating the many pieces of equipment that go into roadwork. You also take great interest in the makeup of our roadways, understanding the various factors that influence gradient and road types.
Program Updates
None
Program Information
Program Information
Exam Information and Resources
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.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Coordination and critical thinking
- Large machinery operations
- Roadwork safety procedures
- Road building and paving principles
- Equipment maintenance
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.
Automotive Glass Technician
Automotive Glass
Technician
- How to prepare vehicles for repairs and servicing
- How to use glass technician tools and equipment
- How to remove and install windshields and windows
- How to perform windshield repair
- How to prepare vehicles for delivery
Automotive Glass Technicians are highly efficient and dexterous tradespeople who assess, repair and replace the windows and windscreens that are essential to the safe operation of vehicles.
As an Automotive Glass Technician, you’ll enjoy helping customers get their vehicles back on the road. You’ll deal with all kinds of repairs to windows and windscreens, managing replacements and applying treatment to help glass withstand everything from heat to ice and rocks. You’re a mechanical person, highly capable of following a set process, but also resourceful as no two jobs are ever the same.
Program Information
Program Information
Exam Information and Resources
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.
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.
Practical Assessment Information (Challengers Only)
If you are not an apprentice taking a SkilledTradesBC-recognized program and are planning to apply to challenge and receive certification, you must complete and pass a practical assessment before your application can be accepted by SkilledTradesBC.
Please contact the Automotive Retailers Association (ARA) for information about the practical assessment.
Instructions
How to Apply
Online Application
Sign up for the Portal to start your online application
Employer Declaration
Document of relevant work experience
Statutory Declaration
Attestation for self-employment/work experience when employer cannot be contacted
- Communication
- Customer Service
- Resourcefulness
- Glass repair, removal and installation
- Troubleshooting
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.