SkilledTradesBC, the organization that oversees the skilled trades in B.C., released its annual reporting of B.C.’s trades training highlighting a record number of apprentices, youth, Indigenous people and women participating in the skilled trades in the province in 2022/2023 fiscal year. 

“We are in a critical time to diversify and grow the skilled trades workforce in B.C. as we face a skilled labour shortage and anticipate 83,000 jobs in skilled trades over the next decade,” said Shelley Gray, CEO, SkilledTradesBC. “There is a place for everyone in skilled trades and we are excited to see a record number of diverse British Columbians exploring skilled trades as a means to support their families, build a successful career, and contribute to the communities that make this province our home.” 

Highlights of the results released in SkilledTradesBC’s annual report include: 

• 41,000 apprentices (+8%)

• 1,492 Indigenous people entering skilled trades (+ 22%)

• 1,072 women entering skilled trades (+ 37%)

• 10,018 youth participation in skilled trades enrollment (+14%)

SkilledTradesBC continues to prioritize growing in these areas as demonstrated in its recently released strategic plan which includes a focus on shifting the perception of the trades, diversity and meaningful reconciliation.

The organization is also leading the implementation of Skilled Trades Certification (STC), helping ensure that trades training and certification is valued and the skills of tradespeople are formally recognized.

Certification implementation has encouraged people to register for their apprenticeships as there has been a notable increase in the number of apprentice registrations in the trades related to STC. Employer sponsor registrations has also shown positive growth, supported by the Canada Apprenticeship Service grant which provides financial incentives to small and medium sized businesses to hire new first-year apprentices in 39 Red Seal Trades.

Read the full report here.