A foundation program teaches the basic knowledge and skills needed for entry into a trade. It’s typically taught in both a classroom and in-school shop setting, without the need to find an employer sponsor to participate.
Completing a foundation program can help you gain some experience and familiarity with a trade, making it easier for you to find an employer who will sponsor your apprenticeship.
Your first step is to take a look at our Trade Programs to discover which trade is right for you.
You can also search for training programs offered in B.C. at EducationPlannerBC and Trades Training BC. Check out this list of programs for underrepresented groups including women and Indigenous peoples.
Foundation programs were previously called Entry Level Trades Training (ELTT) programs. They cover material related to one or more apprenticeship programs and generally also provide credit towards completion of an apprenticeship.
For example, if you complete the Piping foundation program, you will receive credit for level 1 technical training and 375 work-based training hours when you register as an apprentice in either the Plumber, Steamfitter/Pipefitter or Sprinkler System Installer programs.