Carpenter

Carpenter

carpenter working in shop
Construction Oil and Gas Maritime Manufacturing Forestry Mining Transportation & TransitAthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • 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

Program Updates:

  • 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. 

  • OPSN Archives

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.

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Updates:

  • 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

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.

  • Critical thinking and coordination  
  • Hand and power tool operation 
  • Construction site layout 
  • Formwork and framing 
  • Finishing materials  
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. 

Cabinetmaker

Cabinetmaker

person measuring wood with measuring tape and pencil
Construction Maritime ManufacturingAthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • 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

Program Updates:

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.

Updates:

  • 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.

Information:

Updates:

  • 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.

Information:

Updates:

  • 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.

Information:

Updates:

  • 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.

Information:

Program Information

Pre-Harmonization Program 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.

  • Active listening and monitoring
  • Operating woodworking machines and hand tools
  • Product assembly and construction
  • Preparing cost estimates
  • Finish application  
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. 

Bricklayer

Bricklayer

ConstructionAthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • 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

Program Updates and Practical Assessments Info

Program Updates

Practical Assessment Information

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 Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

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

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Updates:

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

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.

  • Critical thinking and coordination 
  • Time management  
  • Physical fitness 
  • Blueprint interpretation 
  • Masonry tools and materials 
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.

Boom Truck Operator (Stiff Boom Unlimited Tonnage)

Boom Truck Operator 

(Stiff Boom Unlimited Tonnage)

Construction Mining Transportation & Transit MaritimeAttentiveCalmConfidentCoordinatedDecisive
  • 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 (Stiff 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 (Stiff 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.

9.00
2.00
Training Hours
400
False

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

 

Practical Assessment Information

To book a practical assessment, please contact Fulford Certification

Program Information

Exam Information and Resources

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

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Updates:

  • None

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.

  • Workplace safety 
  • Excellent driving skills 
  • Hand-eye coordination  
  • Boom truck operations 
  • Rigging and lifting skills 
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. 

Boom Truck Operator: (Folding Boom Unlimited Tonnage)

Boom Truck Operator

(Folding Boom Unlimited Tonnage) 

 

Construction Maritime Mining Transportation & TransitAttentiveCalmConfidentCoordinatedDecisive
  • 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.

7.00
2.00
Training Hours
400
False

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

 

Practical Assessment Information

To book a practical assessment, please contact Fulford Certification

Program Information

Exam Information and Resources

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

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Updates:

  • None

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.

  • Workplace safety 
  • Excellent driving skills 
  • Hand-eye coordination  
  • Boom truck operations 
  • Rigging and lifting skills 
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. 

Boilermaker Endorsement: Marine Fitter

Boilermaker Endorsement: 

Marine Fitter

Maritime ConstructionAthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • 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

Program Updates

  • December 2017: SkilledTradesBC has launched a program for Boilermaker Endorsement: Marine Fitter. For details refer to OPSN 2017 021.

Program Information

Exam Information and Resources

 

Endorsement Exam

 

Updates:

  • None

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.

  • Critical thinking 
  • Problem solving 
  • Work health and safety  
  • Metal installation and repairs 
  • Equipment operation 

 

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. 

Boilermaker

Boilermaker

Construction Oil and Gas Manufacturing Maritime ForestryAthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • 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

Program Updates

Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

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

This program does not have a Standardized Level Exam for Level 1.

Updates:

  • None

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.

  • Critical thinking 
  • Problem solving 
  • Metal fabrication 
  • Boiler construction, installation and repairs 
  • Equipment operation 
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. 

Arborist Technician

Arborist 

Technician

forest of trees with mountainous background in bc
Construction ServicesAdventurousAthleticCurious
  • How to identify different types of plants and trees 
  • How to treat injured and diseased plants and trees  
  • How to fall, limb and buck trees 
  • How to prune and perform other work on trees from the ground 
  • How to chip brush, cut wood and clean up after tree care operations 

Arborist Technicians are adventurous and curious individuals, whose deep appreciation for trees, love of physical activity, and visual way of working create the beautiful communities we all enjoy. 

As an Arborist Technician, you’re skilled in all aspects of tree care, including identifying plants and examining and diagnosing pests and diseases.  

You enjoy working in an outdoor setting, and have an approach that spurs you to interact with your surroundings. You use your knowledge to assess the health and structure of a tree, determine its needs and identify appropriate treatments.  

8.00
1.00
Training Hours
1600
False

Program Information and Resources

Note: Arborist Technician must be taken before Climbing Arborist.   

Exam Information and Resources

Certificate of Qualification Exam

 

Updates:

  • None

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.

  • Active listening  
  • Plant and tree identification 
  • Plant and tree treatment  
  • Falling, limbing and bucking  
  • Pruning and other groundwork 
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. 

Water Well Driller

Water Well 

Driller

ConstructionAttentiveCalmConfidentCoordinatedDecisive
  • 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.  

12.00
2.00
Training Hours
3240
False

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

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.

  • Critical thinking and monitoring 
  • Repair and maintenance  
  • Safety requirements and procedures 
  • Equipment operation 
  • Welding, cutting and drilling 
Certification challenge only trade
1

BC apprentices registered in this program must take their technical training in Alberta. Click here to view the Program Outline and technical training in Alberta. 

Click here to view the training schedule in Alberta. 

Welder

Welder

tradeworker
Construction Maritime Mining Forestry ManufacturingAthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • 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

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

Exam Information and Resources

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

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Updates:

  • None

Information:

Updates:

  • None

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.

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.