Powerline Technician

Powerline 

Technician

powerline technicians
Manufacturing Construction
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair electrical distribution and transmission systems 
  • How to erect and maintain steel, wood or concrete poles, towers and wires 
  • How to splice, solder and insulate conductors and related wiring to connect power distribution and transmission networks 
  • How to inspect and test power lines and cables 
  • How to install and maintain street lighting systems 

Powerline Technicians are careful and analytical tradespeople who work with the complex electrical systems that deliver power to our homes and businesses. 

As a Powerline Technician, you’ll put your analytical nature to the test—in an essential role that ensures the continued, safe supply of power to our communities. 

You'll construct, maintain and repair overhead and underground electrical power transmission and distribution systems. You may work for electric power generation authorities, electrical contractors and public utility commissions.

16.00
4.00
Training Hours
6720
False

Program Updates:

Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

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

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • To be implemented.

Updates:

  • To be implemented.

Updates:

  • March 2021: Program Update (2018 Red Seal Occupational Standard (RSOS))
  • A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2013 National Occupational Analysis (NOA) and 2018 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.

  • Monitoring and critical thinking 
  • Safe work practices 
  • Troubleshooting 
  • Climbing, hydraulic buckets and rigging equipment  
  • Electrical systems repair and installation 
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.

Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic

Refrigeration and 

Air Conditioning Mechanic

Construction Maritime Mining Manufacturing
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to read and interpret blueprints, drawings and other specifications 
  • How to install, troubleshoot and overhaul entire heating, ventilation, air handling, refrigeration and air conditioning systems 
  • How to repair and replace parts and components for entire refrigeration, air conditioning, ventilation and heat pump systems 
  • How to measure, cut and connect piping 
  • How to prepare work estimates, work orders and inspection sheets 

Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics (RACM) are naturally logical and persistent, which serves them well as they fix heating, ventilation, air handling, refrigeration and air conditioning systems.

As a Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic, you’ll install, maintain, and repair residential central air conditioning systems, commercial and industrial refrigeration and air conditioning systems, and combined heating, ventilation and cooling systems.

This will require you to draw from your agile and independent nature, as you’re quick to spring into action and figure out the issues at hand.

33.00
4.00
Training Hours
6210
False

Program Updates:

  • January 2023: For information regarding Year 4 of transition, please see the Transition Update or the Transition Plan for more details. Apprentices who have completed Current Level 2 (CL2) or Current Level 3 (CL3) should contact their Apprenticeship Advisor to discuss options for addressing gaps in their training before taking their next level of technical training.

  • February 2019: OPSN-2019-001 Program changes

  • OPSN Archives

Please be aware that changes have been made to the Gasfitter - Class B program, please view OPSN 2018 002.1 for details. 

Program Information and Resources

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics install, maintain and service residential, commercial, industrial and institutional heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration units and systems. They connect to air delivery systems, install and service hydronic and secondary refrigerant systems and associated controls. Their duties include laying out reference points for installation, assembling and installing components, installing wiring to connect components to an electric power supply, and calibrating related controls.  

They measure, cut, bend, thread and connect pipe to functional components and utilities. They also maintain and service systems by inspecting and testing components, brazing and soldering parts to repair defective joints, adjusting and replacing worn or defective components and reassembling repaired components and systems. As part of service and commissioning, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics start-up, test, charge, adjust, calibrate, balance, measure, verify, maintain and document systems. 

View Program Profile

Exam Information and Resources

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

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

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.

  • Troubleshooting 
  • Fundamentals of refrigeration 
  • Electrical components and safety 
  • Refrigeration and air conditioning installation 
  • Air conditioning servicing 
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.

Sheet Metal Worker

Sheet Metal 

Worker

Construction Manufacturing Maritime Oil and Gas
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to read engineering and architectural drawings and sketches 
  • How to lay out, measure and mark sheet metal according to drawings or templates 
  • How to develop patterns for sheet metal using design and drafting (CAD) software 
  • How to operate computerized laser or plasma-cutting equipment 
  • How to fit and join sheet metal parts, and grind and buff seams, joints and surfaces 

Sheet metal workers are builders who excel at working with many ideas. These traits suit sheet metal, as it’s a durable, flexible material that’s all around us—in roofs, road signs, vehicle parts, etc

As a Sheet Metal Worker, you’ll get to create, assemble and install all kinds of different sheet metal products. Your work will often require collaboration, and it may focus on fabrication or installation.  

Either way, it’ll require comfort with physical work, as you build components and put them together. It’ll also require working with your hands, and solid math skills as you build. 

32.00
4.00
Training Hours
6240
False

Program Updates:

  • January 2023: For information regarding Year 4 of transition, please see the Transition Update or the Transition Plan for more details. Apprentices who have completed Current Level 2 (CL2) or Current Level 3 (CL3) should contact their Apprenticeship Advisor to discuss options for addressing gaps in their training before taking their next level of technical training.

  • January 2019: Program Update (Cross-program credits)

  • April 2018: OPSN-2018-011 (Harmonization)

  • OPSN Archives

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:

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.

  • Layout and development patterns 
  • Fabricating 
  • Air handling and industrial system installation 
  • Architectural and specialty component installation 
  • Service system maintenance 
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.

Steamfitter/Pipefitter

Steamfitter/

Pipefitter

Construction Forestry Maritime Mining Oil and Gas
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to cut openings for pipes in walls, floors and ceilings 
  • How to select the type and size of pipe required for different types of content 
  • How to measure, cut, bend, weld, braze, cement, solder and thread pipes 
  • How to test existing piping systems for leaks 
  • How to clean and maintain pipe units and fittings 

Steamfitter/Pipefitters are logical, hands-on tradespeople who enjoy shaping pipes and installing them for use in a range of systems—from high-pressure water to fuels, cooling solutions and more.

As a Steamfitter/Pipefitter, you’ll need to use your math skills and agility to figure out how to design, assemble, install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair complex pipe systems.  

You’ll need to be comfortable working independently as you analyze each situation. You’ll also need to be creative with how you design your systems and master heating and bending pipes at very high temperatures.

30.00
4.00
Training Hours
6300
False

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
**Current = Program stream for apprentices who've completed level 1 training before 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. 

Harmonized Program Information and Resources

In effect starting April 2019, as per Transition Plan

Please be aware that changes have been made to the Gasfitter - Class B program, please view OPSN 2018 002.1 for details. 

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Steamfitter/Pipefitters lay out, assemble, fabricate, maintain, repair and service equipment and piping systems carrying water, steam, fluids, gases, chemicals and fuel in various systems such as heating, cooling, lubricating and process piping systems. They read and interpret drawings, specifications and codes to determine layout, type and size of pipe, and tools to use. They measure, cut, thread, groove, bend, solder, braze, assemble and install metal, plastic and fiberglass pipes, valves and fittings. As well, they must be able to join and secure pipe sections of related equipment, and they also check systems for leaks. Steamfitters/Pipefitters also do general maintenance work including replacement of worn components.

View Program Profile

Exam Information and Resources

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

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

  • Exam Breakdown
  • Code Book required: Gas Code CSA B149.1-15 or CSA B149.1-20

Updates:

Information:

  • Exam Breakdown
  • Code Book required: Gas Code CSA B149.1-15 or CSA B149.1-20

Updates

Exam Information

Program Information

Information for the Current (pre-harmonized) program.

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 
  • Layout and fabrication 
  • Piping component assembly 
  • Water supply management 
  • Hydronic, natural gas and propane system installation 
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.

Electrician, Industrial

Industrial

electrician

Construction Maritime Mining Forestry Transportation & Transit
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to read and interpret drawings, blueprints and electrical code specifications 
  • How to install electrical components  
  • How to replace or repair electrical components 
  • How to keep maintenance records 
  • How to test electrical equipment for current, voltage and resistance 

Industrial Electricians work behind-the-scenes to ensure the safe and efficient operation of a wide range of sites—from mines to shipyards and factories.  

As an Industrial Electrician, you’ll inspect, test and repair industrial equipment and electrical systems.

You’ll be inspecting, installing, maintaining and repairing high-voltage industrial equipment and electrical controls at shipyards, factories, and other industrial sites. You’ll have an analytical skillset and good dexterity to ensure you can safely work in a physical and alert way. 

40.00
4.00
Training Hours
6000
True

Program Updates:

For more information on the Marine Endorsement please refer to the Marine Electrician - Endorsement Program page.

Logbook and Evidence Guides

Signoff Form

Harmonized Program Information and Resources

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Industrial Electricians inspect, install, test, troubleshoot, repair, and service industrial electrical equipment and associated electrical and electronic controls. Service includes calibration and preventative/predictive maintenance. They are employed by maintenance departments of plants, mines, smelters, oil and gas operations, mills, shipyards, utility companies, manufacturing facilities and other industrial establishments. Some are employed by electrical contractors

View Program Profile

Exam Information and Resources

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

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • October 2023: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2021 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2016 RSOS 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.

  • Critical thinking 
  • Troubleshooting  
  • Judgement and decision-making 
  • Quality control analysis  
  • Installation and maintenance 
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.

Electrician, Construction

Construction 

Electrician

tradeworker
Construction Manufacturing Forestry Mining Maritime
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to interpret drawings, circuit diagrams and electrical code specifications 
  • How to pull wire through walls and floors  
  • How to splice, join and connect wires to fixtures 
  • How to install and repair electrical equipment 
  • How to test and repair faults in electrical systems  

Construction Electricians are tradespeople who keep the lights on. They put their minds and bodies to work, inspecting, testing, installing and replacing the electrical systems that run our world. 

As a Construction Electrician, you’ll know exactly how to deal with complex electrical systems in a wide range of settings.  

Your daily tasks will test your coordination and math skills, as you install, commission, test, maintain and service operating electrical systems and equipment.

You’re calm dealing with powerful systems and take pride in the sense of responsibility your work provides.

40.00
4.00
Training Hours
6000
True

Program Updates:

For more information on the Marine Endorsement please refer to the Marine Electrician - Endorsement Program page.

Harmonized Program Information and Resources

Exam Information and Resources

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

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • January 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2021 Red Seal Occupational Standard (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between 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.

  • Critical thinking 
  • Troubleshooting  
  • Judgement and decision-making 
  • Quality control analysis  
  • Installation and maintenance 
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.

Gasfitter - Class B

Gasfitter

Class B

CommercialGasFitter
Oil and Gas Construction Forestry Maritime
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to measure and mark reference points for gas installations 
  • How to install and maintain gas meters, regulators and lines 
  • How to install, maintain and service gas heating units and their components 
  • How to repair and service gas appliances and related equipment  
  • How to test for and deal with gas leaks 

Gasfitters are careful people who enjoy a physical workplace and function well under pressure. They are very precise, as they oversee the gas systems that heat and power our homes and businesses. 

As a Gasfitter – Class B, you’ll use your strong math skills and thorough approach to install, repair and maintain propane and natural gas products found in homes and buildings with safety as top of mind. 

You may find yourself inside a building or outside, working on a range of tasks that ensure the proper use of gas.  

20.00
2.00
Training Hours
3000
False

Note: SkilledTradesBC is responsible for administering the apprenticeship for Gasfitter – Class B Certificate of Qualification with Red Seal Endorsement. Technical Safety BC is responsible for overseeing the safe installation and operation of technical systems and equipment through Gas Certification. Please refer to the Technical Safety BC website for information on its gas certification exam requirements. 

Skilled Trades Certification Updates

Trade workers and their employers are responsible for ensuring they hold the necessary licenses or credentials to meet all applicable regulatory requirements.  

In British Columbia, Gasfitter – Class B is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, administered by SkilledTradesBC. Trade workers must also be certified by Technical Safety BC to work in the trade, and more information on that certification is available here on the Technical Safety BC website. 

Skilled Trades Certification, also known as compulsory trades, requires tradespeople working in the trade to be either a registered apprentice with SkilledTradesBC or a certified journeyperson.  

To be considered a certified journeyperson, you must hold one of the following qualifications: 

  • A Gasfitter – Class B Certificate of Qualification issued by SkilledTradesBC (either B.C. or with Red Seal endorsement) or other Canadian jurisdictional authorities; or 

  • A Class B Gas Fitter Certificate of Qualification issued by Technical Safety BC, obtained by successfully passing a full-scope technical exam. 

If you have any questions about Skilled Trades Certification requirements, please complete this Contact form and our Advisors will get in touch with you. 

Program Updates

  • November 2024: The Red Seal Gasfitter - Class B program will be implemented on January 1, 2025. Please see OPSN 2024 026.

  • April 2022: Transition Update (Year 4) All levels of the current (pre-2019) program have been phased out. Apprentices who completed Level 1 before 2019 are asked to contact their Apprenticeship Advisor before registering for Level 2. 

  • September 2018: Transition Plan (revised April 2022)

  • March 2018: OPSN 2018 002.1 Program Changes

 

New Red Seal Program Information

Implemetation Date: January 1, 2025 

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Gasfitters – Class B design, install, test, adjust, maintain and repair lines, appliances, equipment and accessories in various sectors. Fuels may include natural gas, manufactured gas, liquefied petroleum gas, digester gas, landfill gas, biogas or a mixture or dilution of any of these gases and hydrogen. Appliances and equipment include those that do not exceed 400,000 Btuh (British Thermal Units per hour) or 120 kW (kilowatts) such as boilers, burners, makeup air units, furnaces, process burners, and various other gas-fired equipment.

View Profile

Program Information and Resources

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Gasfitters – Class B design, install, test, adjust, maintain and repair lines, appliances, equipment and accessories in various sectors. Fuels may include natural gas, manufactured gas, liquefied petroleum gas, digester gas, landfill gas, biogas or a mixture or dilution of any of these gases and hydrogen. Appliances and equipment include those that do not exceed 400,000 Btuh (British Thermal Units per hour) or 120 kW (kilowatts) such as boilers, burners, makeup air units, furnaces, process burners, and various other gas-fired equipment.

View Profile

Exam Information and Resources

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • November 2024: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2014 Gasfitter - Class B NOA)

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.

  • Monitoring and quality control 
  • Operation of power tools and equipment  
  • Fuel systems and gas equipment 
  • Venting and air supply 
  • Controls and safeguards 
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.

Gasfitter - Class A

Gasfitter

Class A 

CommercialGasFitter
Oil and Gas Maritime Construction Forestry
Red Seal
Skilled Trades Certification
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to measure and mark reference points for gas installations 
  • How to install, maintain and service fuel systems  
  • How to install, maintain and service venting and air supply systems 
  • How to install and service gas equipment 
  • How to install and service controls and safeguards 

Gasfitters are careful people who enjoy a physical workplace and function well under pressure. They are very precise, as they oversee the gas systems that heat and power our homes and businesses. 

As a Gasfitter - Class A, you’ll enjoy a hands-on, atmosphere where you work to install, service and maintain gas lines, appliances and equipment in a range of settings. Using your knack for precision and math, you’ll know the details around fuel, venting, and air supply systems. It’s a challenging and rewarding role, as your work directly impacts the safe use of gas in home and buildings.

20.00
2.00
Training Hours
3000
False

Note: SkilledTradesBC is responsible for administering the apprenticeship for Gasfitter – Class A Certificate of Qualification with Red Seal Endorsement. Technical Safety BC is responsible for overseeing the safe installation and operation of technical systems and equipment through Gas Certification. Please refer to the Technical Safety BC website for information on its gas certification exam requirements.

Skilled Trades Certification Updates

Trade workers and their employers are responsible for ensuring they hold the necessary licenses or credentials to meet all applicable regulatory requirements.  

In British Columbia, Gasfitter – Class A is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, administered by SkilledTradesBC. Trade workers must also be certified by Technical Safety BC to work in the trade, and more information on that certification is available here on Technical Safety BC website. 

Skilled Trades Certification, also known as compulsory trades, requires tradespeople working in the trade to be either a registered apprentice with SkilledTradesBC or a certified journeyperson.  

To be considered a certified journeyperson, you must hold one of the following qualifications: 

  • A Gasfitter – Class A Certificate of Qualification issued by SkilledTradesBC (either B.C. or with Red Seal endorsement) or other Canadian jurisdictional authorities; or 

  • A Class A Gas Fitter Certificate of Qualification issued by Technical Safety BC, obtained by successfully passing a full-scope technical exam. 

If you have any questions about Skilled Trades Certification requirements, please complete this Contact form and our Advisors will get in touch with you. 

Program Updates

  • Level 2 Technical Training of the Red Seal Gasfitter - Class A program will be implemented on January 1, 2024.

  • The Red Seal Gasfitter - Class A program will be implemented on January 1, 2023. Please see OPSN 2022 023 for details.

  • November 2020: Gasfitter - Class A will be designated as a Red Seal trade in BC as of April 1, 2021. The new Program Outline and Program Profile for this Red Seal Program are posted below. Please see OPSN 2020 010 for details.

New Red Seal Program Information

Implementation Date: January 1, 2023

Program Profile

Occupational Description

Gasfitters – Class A install, test, maintain and repair propane and/or natural gas lines, appliances, equipment and accessories in residential and commercial premises. They are involved in the installation or alteration of any gas system, except vehicle fuel systems, under an appropriate permit. Class A Gasfitters can work on appliances and equipment that exceed 400,000 Btuh (British Thermal Units per hour) or 120 kW (kilowatts), such as boilers, burners, makeup air units, furnaces, process burners, and various other gas-fired equipment. 

Please note: to register for Gasfitter – Class A, a tradesperson must hold Gasfitter – Class B Certification.

View Program Profile

Exam Information and Resources

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

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • April 2023: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2014 Gasfitter - Class A NOA)

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.

  • Monitoring and quality control 
  • Operation of power tools and equipment  
  • Fuel systems and gas equipment 
  • Venting and air supply 
  • Controls and safeguards 
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. 

Subscribe to Skilled Trades Certification