bar graph

Powerline Technician

Powerline 

Technician

powerline technicians
Manufacturing ConstructionAnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • 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

Skilled Trades Certification Updates:

Powerline Technician is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, also known as a compulsory trade, in British Columbia. This means that to work in this trade, you must be registered as an apprentice, be a certified journeyperson, or have applied as a Trade Qualifier or Uncertified Experienced Worker.

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.

Residential Building Maintenance Worker

Residential Building 

Maintenance Worker

ConstructionAnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • How to perform all duties in accordance with building codes and bylaws 
  • How to maintain or repair piping and plumbing fixtures, as well as electrical appliances, outlets and accessories 
  • How to lay out, measure, cut and assemble wood 
  • How to maintain and place concrete products  
  • How to maintain, repair and remove gutters, flashing, roofing systems, insulation, tiles, carpet, Gyproc walls, and more 

Residential Building Maintenance Workers are highly versatile and can assess many situations—from construction to plumbing—and address them, ensuring the buildings they manage are in working order. 

As a Residential Building Maintenance Worker, you’ll enjoy a dynamic and engaging role.  

You’re very resourceful, using a broad range of knowledge and skills to repair, maintain, install and remove a range of components and systems. This could include fixing electrical appliances, removing a troublesome plumbing fixture—and more, making you an essential handyperson who can do a bit of everything

24.00
3.00
Training Hours
4500
False

Program Updates

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.

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.

  • Communication and coordination  
  • Troubleshooting 
  • Hand and power tool use 
  • Construction, plumbing and electrical techniques 
  • Knowledge of bylaws and building codes 
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. 

Recreation Vehicle Service Technician

Recreation Vehicle 

Service Technician

RV service technician working on a vehicle
AutomotiveAnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • How to use tools and equipment 
  • How to service potable water and wastewater systems 
  • How to service electrical and photovoltaic systems 
  • How to service propane systems, water heaters, cooktops, refrigerators, furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, consumer products and more 
  • How to service interior and exterior components, frames, tow and lifting systems 

Recreation Vehicle Service Technicians are versatile, mechanical experts who maintain the many systems and components that we rely on in our motorhomes and travel trailers. 

As a Recreation Vehicle Service Technician, you’ll be an expert at working on the complex, interconnected systems that create the comfortable RV experience many people enjoy. 

You’re highly analytical and systematic, using a hands-on approach to assess issues. On any day, you could be fixing electrical components, installing plumbing fixtures, analyzing propane gas components—and more.  

24.00
3.00
Training Hours
4680
False

Program Updates

Harmonization Progress

  • Level 1 - Harmonized

  • Level 2 - Harmonized

  • Level 3 - 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 Us.

Program Information

Exam Information and Resources

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

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.

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 
  • Hazardous materials handling 
  • Vehicle repair and maintenance  
  • Use of specialized tools and equipment 
  • Knowledge of Recreational Vehicle systems 
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. 

Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic

Refrigeration and 

Air Conditioning Mechanic

Construction Maritime Mining ManufacturingAnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • 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

Skilled Trades Certification Updates:

Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, also known as a compulsory trade, in British Columbia. This means that to work in this trade, you must be registered as an apprentice, be a certified journeyperson, or have applied as a Trade Qualifier or Uncertified Experienced Worker.

 

Program Updates:

  • April 2025: OPSN 2025 007 (New Cross Program Credits)

  • 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 2019OPSN-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

Exam Information and Resources

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

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

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.

Marine Mechanical Technician

Marine Mechanical 

Technician

marina in horsehoe bay bc
Maritime ConstructionAnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • Critical thinking and troubleshooting
  • Monitoring and quality control
  • Use of specialized tools and equipment
  • General marine maintenance 
  • Knowledge of marine systems 

Marine Mechanical Technicians are the fixers who understand every aspect of how marine vessels work. They’re systematic professionals, who troubleshoot systems and ensure everything runs safely. 

As a Marine Mechanical Technician, you’ll be responsible for fixing, repairing, installing and maintaining a wide range of marine systems—from boat engines to electrical systems, pumps, drive trains and more.  

You’re an analytical individual, who enjoys working through a problem methodically. You’ll restore engines and systems to optimal levels, ensuring every vessel is in perfect working order.

20.00
2.00
Training Hours
4800
False

Program Updates

  • September 2021: For information regarding transition, see the Program Update and Transition Plan.

  • August 2021: A new Program Outline and Program Profile will be implemented April 1, 2022. Please see OPSN 2021 008 for details

Program Information and Resources

In effect starting April 1, 2022

Exam Information and Resources

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

Information:

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.

  • How to use tools, equipment and materials
  • How to inspect and repair water, mechanical, and electrical systems
  • How to service and install hydraulic systems
  • How to perform metal fabrication and electrical work
  • How to service engines, as well as drive, ignition, fuel and control systems 
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. 

Locksmith

Locksmith

ConstructionAnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to interpret blueprints 
  • How to apply codes and regulations 
  • How to use key-cutting and welding tools and equipment 
  • How to create keys and install and repair locks 
  • How to install electrical components, master key systems and security hardware 

Locksmiths are security experts who build, install, repair and maintain the complex and fascinating systems we use to start our cars, lock our homes and protect our valuable possessions. 

As a Locksmith, you’re a highly inquisitive and precise professional who never shies away from a complex challenge.  

Due to your persistent and logical nature, you’ll greatly enjoy working on all sorts of security components. You’ll not only cut keys, but also repair, service and install various control systems.  

Above all, you’ll take pride in a career that helps people feel more secure.

Training Hours
3600
False

Most locksmiths working in B.C. require a security licence. For more information about the security industry in B.C., and to explore licensing requirements, please visit Security Program Division’s website.

Program Updates

 

Exam Breakdowns

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.

  • Customer service 
  • Communication  
  • Use of tools and equipment 
  • Creating keys and repairing locks 
  • Installing security systems 
Certification challenge only trade
1

Steamfitter/Pipefitter

Steamfitter/

Pipefitter

Construction Forestry Maritime Mining Oil and GasAnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • 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

Skilled Trades Certification Updates:

Steamfitter/Pipefitter is a Skilled Trades Certification trade, also known as a compulsory trade, in British Columbia. This means that to work in this trade, you must be registered as an apprentice, be a certified journeyperson, or have applied as a Trade Qualifier or Uncertified Experienced Worker.

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. 

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

  • March 2025: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to the 2022 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)). A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2015 NOA and the 2022 RSOS can be found here.
  • October 2018: Program Update (RSOS 2015)

Exam 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
  • 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.

Transport Trailer Technician

Transport Trailer 

Technician 

Transportation & Transit ManufacturingAnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • How to operate shop equipment including winches, cutting and welding equipment 
  • How to service and repair brake systems 
  • How to service hydraulic and electrical systems 
  • How to service frames, steering and suspension 
  • How to service HVAC systems and trailer components 

Transport Trailer Technicians are mechanical and resourceful tradespeople who enjoy fixing, building and maintaining the wide range of commercial trailers. 

As a Transport Trailer Technician, you’ll be comfortable working on high-value commercial trailers, taking charge to apply a systematic and analytical approach.  

You’ll regularly repair, rebuild and maintain these trailers, identifying solutions and the tools you need. You’ll quickly work your way through the many systems ensuring that every trailer you work on is safe and ready to hit the road.

14.00
2.00
Training Hours
3150
False

Program Updates

Harmonized 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:

  • January 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.

  • Troubleshooting 
  • Critical thinking 
  • Monitoring and quality assurance 
  • Power and hand tool use  
  • Trailer system repair 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. 

Diesel Engine Mechanic

Diesel Engine 

Mechanic 

Oil and Gas Construction Maritime Transportation & Transit Manufacturing ForestryAnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • How to use tools and shop equipment
  • How to service and repair diesel engine systems
  • How to service and repair brakes, frames, steering and suspension
  • How to service and repair electrical systems and trailers
  • How to service and repair air conditioning and accessories 

Diesel Engine Mechanics are systematic and resourceful professionals who enjoy analyzing diesel systems and ensuring every item is properly assessed and fixed—getting vehicles back on the road. 

As a Diesel Engine Mechanic, you’ll spend each day collaborating with team members and working with your hands as you inspect and repair vehicles.

You’ll enjoy mechanics and troubleshooting, which you’ll do a lot of as you not only handle routine repairs, but also interpret diagnostic testing and develop repair plans. You’ll also work on a wide range of vehicles, with no two issues ever the same.

18.00
2.00
Training Hours
3000
False

Program Updates

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:

  • March 2024: OPSN 2025 005 (Launch of HMT Common Core Level 2 and Level 3 SLEs)

Information:

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
  • Vehicle systems repair
  • Equipment maintenance
  • Troubleshooting 
  • Systems monitoring   
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. 

Automotive Service Technician

Automotive Service 

Technician 

Automotive Service Technicians in garage working on hood of cars
Automotive Transportation & TransitAnalyticalCoordinatedResourcefulSystematic
  • 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

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.

  • OPSN Archives

Program Information (2024) and Resources

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:

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:

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:

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.

  • Vehicle repair and maintenance
  • Troubleshooting
  • Specialized tools and equipment
  • Brake, steering, suspension and electrical systems
  • Engine mechanics and components  
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.