Lather (Interior Systems Mechanic)
Lather (Interior
Systems Mechanic)
- 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
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.
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.
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms and Formulas
- Code Book required: none
- Exam Breakdown
- Acronyms and Formulas
- 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 018 (Revisions to Training Provider Standards section of Program Outline)
August 2022: OPSN 2022 017 (Harmonization)
October 2023: OPSN 2023 010 (HL1 SLE launch)
October 2023: OPSN 2023 010 (HL2 SLE launch)
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.
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
- Communications and coordination
- Time management
- Blueprint and specification reading
- Interior material installation
- Interior component installation
Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.