Boilermaker

Boilermaker

Construction Oil and Gas Manufacturing Maritime Forestry
Red Seal
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • 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

Effective April 1, 2026

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.

 

 

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.)

  • OPSN Archives

None

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.

  • Critical thinking
  • Problem solving
  • Metal fabrication
  • Boiler construction, installation and repairs
  • Equipment operation 
Certification challenge only trade
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Baker

Baker

baker
Services Manufacturing
Red Seal
CreativeExpressivePreciseVisual
  • How to prepare doughs and batters
  • How to decorate cakes and other treats
  • How to ensure consistent quality across large quantities of baked goods
  • How to operate large mixers, ovens and other small-scale industrial equipment
  • How to order, organize and store food safely  

Bakers are creative individuals, who can follow and create a recipe—often on the spot. They take great pride in their hands-on, challenging work, which is on display every day for customers to enjoy. 

As a Baker, you’re a master of time management—fast and precise, able to produce baked goods under tight timelines. You’re also constantly multitasking, from receiving and measuring ingredients to preparing batters and doughs, baking and decorating. 

You might find yourself working with other Bakers in a retail or bakery, leading the baking at a hotel or restaurant, or running your own business.

12.00
3.00
Training Hours
5040
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 Program (2024) Information and Resources

In effect starting September 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. 

 

 

 

Program and Exam Updates

  • December 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2023 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2015 NOA and 2023 RSOS can be found here. 

  • November 2024: OPSN 2024 027 (Baker Harmonized Level 1 & 2 SLE Launch)

  • March 2024: Standardized Level Exams will be deactivated on September 1, 2024, until Harmonized Standardized Level Exams are implemented.

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.

Note: A VALID FOODSAFE Level 1 Certification or equivalent is a pre-requisite to challenge this certification.

  • Monitoring and active learning
  • Safe food storage and handling
  • Merchandising, inventory, and sales
  • Baked goods materials, principles and terminology
  • Assembly, icing and decoration  
Certification challenge only trade
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Automotive Service Technician

Automotive Service 

Technician 

Automotive Service Technicians in garage working on hood of cars
Automotive Transportation & Transit
Red Seal
AnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • 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.  

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. 

Program Information (2024) 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. 

 

Active as of January 1, 2026 :

 

 

 

Active as of January 1, 2026

Active until December 31, 2025

Program and Exam 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.

  • OPSN Archives

 

  • January 2026: OPSN 2025 026 (Standardized Level Exams for levels 1 and 2 implemented on January 1, 2026).

  • January 2026: OPSN 2025 024 (IP Exams aligned to the 2023 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between 2016 RSOS and the 2023 RSOS can be found here. 

  • 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.

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.

  • Vehicle repair and maintenance
  • Troubleshooting
  • Specialized tools and equipment
  • Brake, steering, suspension and electrical systems
  • Engine mechanics and components  
Certification challenge only trade
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Automotive Refinishing Technician

Automotive Refinishing 

Technician 

refinishing technician
Automotive Transportation & Transit Oil and Gas
Red Seal
CreativeExpressivePreciseVisual
  • How to use lifting, mixing and spray tools and equipment
  • How to use welding equipment 
  • How to create a work plan and organize materials 
  • How to remove and install vehicle components 
  • How to prepare surfaces and apply finishes 

Automotive Refinishing Technicians are creative and expressive professionals who put the finishing touches on repaired and restored vehicles.  

As an Automotive Refinishing Technician, you’ll work on a range of vehicles, providing the final restoration steps once body work has been completed.  

 

You’ll prepare vehicles for final coats and removing vehicle components in preparation. You’ll also become a creative master in paint jobs, going through the preparation steps and applying the fine-tuned layer technique and colour matching.  

10.00
2.00
Training Hours
3300
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

In effect starting April 1, 2021

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. 

 

 

Program Information

Detailed program information prior to its transition to the harmonized program.

Program and Exam Updates

Program Updates

Harmonization Updates

  • Level 1 - Harmonized*

  • Level 2 - Harmonized*

*Harmonized = Program stream with re-aligned content beginning in April 2021

If you are unclear as to what program you are registered in, or unclear as to which program you should be following, please contact Customer Service.   

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.

  • Detail-oriented 
  • Care and precision
  • Vehicle exterior preparation
  • Vehicle painting 
  • Component removal and installation 
Certification challenge only trade
1

Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.

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Auto Body and Collision Technician

Auto Body and 

Collision Technician 

man with car
Automotive Transportation & Transit Oil and Gas
Red Seal
AnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • 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.

25.00
4.00
Training Hours
6450
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

In effect starting April 1, 2021

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. 

Updates:

  •  

Information:

 

 

 

 

Program Information

Information for the Current (pre-harmonized) program (Motor Vehicle Body Repairer)

Program, Harmonization and Exam Updates

Program Updates

 

Harmonization Updates

As of April 1, 2024

  • Level 1 - Harmonized

  • Level 2 - Harmonized

  • Level 3 - Harmonized

  • Level 4 - Harmonized

If you are unclear as to what program you are registered in, or unclear as to which program you should be following, please contact Customer Service. 

  • January 2024: OPSN 2024 001 (Harmonized Level 3 SLE Launch)

  • 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.

  • February 2023: OPSN 2023 001 (Harmonized Level 2 SLE Launch)

  • June 2022: OPSN 2022 011 (Harmonized Level 1 SLE Launch)

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.

  • Auto Body repair and maintenance
  • Troubleshooting
  • Surface preparation and refinishing 
  • Auto Body construction and components  
  • Insurance estimating  

 

Certification challenge only trade
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Truck and Transport Mechanic

Truck and Transport 

Mechanic

truck and transport mechanic
Transportation & Transit Manufacturing Mining
Red Seal
AnalyticalCoordinatedResourceful
  • 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. 

28.00
4.00
Training Hours
6330
True

Program Updates

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:

Information:

Updates:

  • April 2025: OPSN 2025 005 (Launch of HMT Common Core Level 2 and Level 3 SLEs) 

Information:

Updates:

  • April 2025: OPSN 2025 005 (Launch of HMT Common Core Level 2 and Level 3 SLEs) 

Information:

Updates:

  • January 2026: OPSN 2025 023 (IP Exams aligned to the 2022 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between 2015 NOA and the 2022 RSOS can be found here.
  • 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:

Active as of January 1, 2026

Active until December 31, 2025

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.

  • 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 
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. 

Welder

Welder

tradeworker
Construction Maritime Mining Forestry Manufacturing
Red Seal
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • 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:

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.

Plumber

Plumber

A female tradesperson stands smiling in a shop in front of a wall of tools.
Construction Forestry Manufacturing Oil and Gas Maritime
Red Seal
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to read and interpret blueprints, drawings and project specifications
  • How to install, repair and maintain plumbing fixtures and systems
  • How to install specialized systems
  • How to select, measure, shape and join pipes
  • How to locate, prevent, repair and test pipes for leaks 

Plumbers take great satisfaction creating, and fixing complex systems. Their logical approach is fit for a career centered around installing and repairing the essential plumbing we depend on. 

As a Plumber, you’ll constantly test your troubleshooting skills, demonstrating a persistent and agile approach to work as you think ahead while fixing, installing, and reviewing complex systems and appliances.  

You enjoy challenging and time-sensitive tasks, not to mention working in a key role that upholds high safety standards and ensures we protect the essential water systems around us.

30.00
4.00
Training Hours
6300
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 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
  • Code Books required:
    • One version of each of the following two code books will be required:
      • National Plumbing Code of Canada (NPC) 2015 or 2020
      • CSA B149.1:15 or CSA B149.1:20

 

Program, Harmonization and Exam Updates

Program Updates

Harmonization Progress

  • Level 1 - Harmonized*

  • Level 2 - Harmonized*

  • Level 3 - Harmonized*

  • Level 4 - Harmonized*

*Harmonized = Program stream with re-aligned content beginning in April 2019

If you are unclear as to what program you are registered in, or unclear as to which program you should be following, please Contact Us. 

  • February 2025: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to the 2023 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS) with revised Exam Breakdown). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between 2016 RSOS and the 2023 RSOS can be found here.

  • April 2024: OPSN 2024 011 (Harmonized Level 3 SLE Launch)

  • October 2022: OPSN 2022 025 (Harmonized Level 2 SLE Code Book Update)

  • February 2022: OPSN 2022 003 (Harmonized Level 2 SLE Launch)

  • October 2019: OPSN 2019 015 (Harmonized Level 1 SLE Launch)

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.

  • Critical thinking
  • Monitoring
  • Quality control
  • Plumbing components preparation and assembly
  • Plumbing systems installation  
Certification challenge only trade
1

Interested in this trade? Learn how to start your apprenticeship.

Start Your Apprenticeship

Appliance Service Technician

Appliance Service 

Technician 

2 tradeworkers
Services
Red Seal
AnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • 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. 

Training Hours
7200
False

Technical Training

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.

Program Information

Exam Information and Resources

Interprovincial Exam Resources

Looking for more exam tips? Visit the Exam and Study Support page. 

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.

  • Appliance repair and maintenance
  • Troubleshooting
  • Customer relations
  • Workplace and electrical safety 
  • Electrical principles, components and equipment   
Certification challenge only trade
1
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