Lather (Interior Systems Mechanic)

Lather

(Interior Systems Mechanic)

wall and ceiling trade worker
Construction
19-35
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to use blueprints 
  • How to prepare wall and ceiling layouts 
  • How to install support frameworks for ceilings and walls 
  • How to cut openings for heating and ventilation piping, ducts and electrical outlets 
  • How to install curtain walls, fire and sound systems and other ceiling and wall components 

Lathers are precise and tactile builders who create the support frameworks for residential and commercial interiors while also installing various building components.  

As a Lather, you’ll enjoy spending your time planning and building the interior structures that make up all sorts of buildings.  

You’ll collaborate with others on the various components and work that go into ceilings and walls. Using your strong math skills, you’ll read blueprints, install materials and support structures, and put together other components, such as fire and sound systems.  

18.00
3.00
Training Hours
6000
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:

Information:

Updates:

  • November 2022: Program Update (2021 Red Seal Occupational Standard (RSOS))
  • A Comparative Analysis detailing the changes between the 2012 National Occupational Analysis (NOA) and the 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.

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 refer to the application form on whether this trade qualifies.

  • Communications and coordination  
  • Time management  
  • Blueprint and specification reading 
  • Interior material installation 
  • Interior component 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.

Landscape Horticulturist

Landscape 

Horticulturist

LandscapeHorticulturalist
Construction Other
17-30
AdventurousAthleticCuriousVisual
  • How to survey, assess, design and build various landscapes 
  • How to identify a diverse range of plant material  
  • How to care for all kinds of plants, trees and shrubs 
  • How to diagnose and treat plants 
  • How to manage plant pests and incorporate integrated pest management 

Landscape Horticulturists are the masterminds behind many of the green spaces in our communities, knowing which plants and features would enhance the area for everyone’s enjoyment. 

As a Landscape Horticulturist, you’ll enjoy spending most of your time outside, designing and maintaining the various landscapes that cover our communities, from parks to botanical gardens, and more. 

Your work will take you to a wide range of sites, where you’ll assess landscapes, identify and treat plants, and put your vision to work—creating living art. 

24.00
4.00
Training Hours
5280
False

Program Updates

  • January 2023: For information regarding transition to the harmonized program, please see the Transition Update or Transition Plan. Apprentices who have attained Current Level 1, 2, or 3 should contact their Apprenticeship Advisor to discuss options for addressing gaps in their training before taking their next level of technical training.

  • March 2018: Transition Plan

  • March 2018: OPSN 2018 009 (Harmonization)

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:

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 refer to the application form on whether this trade qualifies.

  • Customer service 
  • Physical fitness 
  • Equipment and vehicle operation  
  • Plant health management 
  • Landscape design 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.

Ironworker (Reinforcing)

Ironworker

(Reinforcing)

IronWorker
Oil and Gas Construction
23-44
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to read and interpret blueprints, plans and specifications  
  • How to unload, position and take down structures and equipment  
  • How to weld reinforcing steel rods, wire fabric and composite materials 
  • How to place and stress various post-tensioning systems  
  • How to examine structures and equipment for deterioration, defects and non-compliance   

Ironworkers (Reinforcing) build and place the steel and metal components that reinforce the structures around us. They work carefully to ensure the safety and integrity of our structures. 

As an Ironworker (Reinforcing), you’ll build and install reinforcing steel rods and weld a materials for structures such as buildings, highways, and more.  

It’s precise and mathematical work, which you excel in, and includes considerable responsibility. Thankfully, you thrive when faced with a technical and responsible role, taking it upon yourself to ensure you follow all plans and specifications. 

14.00
2.00
Training Hours
3180
False

Program Information

and Resources

Exam Information

And Resources

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

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 refer to the application form on whether this trade qualifies.

  • Rigging, hoisting and lifting equipment 
  • Crane work procedures  
  • Steel structure erecting 
  • Reinforcement, pre-stressing, and post-tensioning techniques 
  • Structural steel 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. 

Sprinkler Fitter

Sprinkler 

Fitter

sprinkler fitter
Construction Forestry Oil and Gas
23-47
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to read and interpret drawings, specifications and fire codes 
  • How to select, measure, cut, ream and thread pipe 
  • How to join pipes and piping sections using soldering and welding equipment 
  • How to install valves, alarms, controls and associated equipment 
  • How to test systems for leaks using air or liquid pressure equipment 

Sprinkler Fitters have a real impact on the safety of their communities. They are the tradespeople who make sure all buildings have the proper sprinkler systems in place. 

As a Sprinkler Fitter, you’ll be comfortable taking on a role of great responsibility—designing, assembling and installing sprinkler systems.

You’ll apply stringent safety regulations to your work, ensuring each system you install and repair is in top working order. Many systems can be quite complicated, and you’ll be the one who makes sure each one can save buildings and even lives, if needed.

24.00
3.00
Training Hours
6480
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:

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 refer to the application form on whether this trade qualifies.

  • WHMIS and WorkSafe BC compliance 
  • Cutting, brazing, and soldering equipment use 
  • Project planning according to industry codes, regulations and standards 
  • Sprinkler components installation 
  • Water supply and sprinkler systems 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.

Ironworker (Generalist)

Ironworker

(Generalist)

IronWorker
Oil and Gas Construction Maritime
23-44
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to read and interpret blueprints, plans and specifications 
  • How to unload, position and take down structures and equipment 
  • How to align and weld or bolt steel units in place  
  • How to set up concrete components, reinforce concrete structures, and examine structures  
  • How to examine structures and equipment for deterioration, defects and non-compliance  

Ironworkers (Generalist) are precise and collaborative tradespeople who work closely with steel and other types of metal to build, maintain and remove a range of structures—from towers to highways.

As an Ironworker (Generalist), you’ll have a range of job sites to choose from. You’ll use a mathematical and tactile approach to carry out a range of structural work.  

You’ll be welding, riveting, and bolting, while also helping crane operators position their loads. You’ll learn how different types of metal respond in situations—and how to use specialized equipment to shape it how you see fit. 

22.00
3.00
Training Hours
4740
False

Program Information

and Resources

Exam Information

And Resources

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

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.

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 refer to the application form on whether this trade qualifies.

  • Use of rigging, hoisting and lifting equipment 
  • Application of crane work procedures  
  • Steel structure erection 
  • Reinforcement, pre-stressing, and post-tensioning techniques 
  • Structural steel 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. 

Tilesetter

Tilesetter

Construction
18-39
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to prepare, measure and mark surfaces to be covered 
  • How to build underbeds and install anchor bolts, wires and brackets 
  • How to mix, apply and spread mortar, cement, mastic, glue or other adhesives 
  • How to set, align, cut and fix tiles 
  • How to install tile strips 

Tilesetters are precise and tactile tradespeople who prepare and install a wide range of tiles—from ceramic to terrazzo and marble. 

As a Tilesetter, your work will require intense precision, as you measure and cut a range of special materials to an exact fit. You’ll move through the motions of preparing and installing materials. This will include working in many settings—from swimming pools to commercial buildings, and more. 

And you’ll align your math skills with a unique creativity that shines through in an artistic and practical creation. 

12.00
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:

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 refer to the application form on whether this trade qualifies.

  • Coordination  
  • Communication  
  • Material selection and recommendation  
  • Saw and cutter operations  
  • Trowelling and mortar preparation  
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.

Tool and Die Maker

Tool and 

Die Maker

Manufacturing Aerospace Construction Forestry Maritime

Please note that this program is only available for those wishing to challenge certification. There is no apprenticeship pathway at this time.

Tool and Die Makers design, construct, test and repair production tools, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges and specialty hand tools by laying out, setting-up, machining, fitting and finishing using various metals, alloys and plastics. They produce tooling that is used to manufacture and stamp out parts, and they supply tooling and dies for all manufacturing sectors.

Training Hours
0
False

Program Information and Updates

Program Updates

  • December 1, 2018: OPSN 2018 022
    The Tool and Die Maker apprenticeship pathway has been deactivated. The challenge pathway for the Tool and Die trade has been preserved and the Machinist Red Seal certification remains a pre-requisite to entering the challenge pathway. As a result of harmonization, the work-based training hour requirement has been adjusted.

  • OPSN Archives

Program Profile

View here

Occupational Description: A Tool and Die Maker designs, constructs, tests and repairs production tools, cutting tools, jigs, fixtures, gauges and specialty hand tools by laying out, setting-up, machining, fitting and finishing using various metals, alloys and plastics. Tool and Die Makers produce tooling that is used to manufacture and stamp out parts, and supply tooling and dies for all manufacturing sectors. 

Challenge the

trade

The Tool and Die Maker apprenticeship pathway has been deactivated. The challenge pathway for the Tool and Die trade has been preserved and the Machinist Red Seal certification remains a pre-requisite to entering the challenge pathway. As a result of harmonization, the work-based training hour requirement has been adjusted.

Certification challenge only trade
0

Security Systems Technician

Security Systems 

Technician

Construction Oil and Gas
17-35
AnalyticalCuriousIndependentLogicalPersistent
  • How to use safe work practices  
  • How to use hand and power tools 
  • How to use test instruments, fasteners, sealants and surface fillers 
  • How to apply codes and regulations 
  • How to install security systems 

Security Systems Technicians take care of the systems that take care of us. They are experts who ensure every system works as intended, with no compromise on safety and security. 

As a Security Systems Technician, you’ll draw on your persistent style as you plan, troubleshoot and coordinate the installation, repair and maintenance of electronic security alarm systems.  

You'll be comfortable working independently, as you reference each task back to various building codes and regulations, and you’ll anticipate the elements that go into each system as you design it. 

Training Hours
3600
False

The Security Services Act refers to Security Systems Technicians as “Security Alarm Installers.” Most security systems technicians 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

Certificate of Qualification (CofQ) Exam Breakdown

Program Information

and Resources

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 refer to the application form on whether this trade qualifies.

  • Critical thinking 
  • Coordination and troubleshooting 
  • Safe work practices 
  • Electrical theory 
  • Security system design 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.

Roofer

Roofer

Construction Oil and Gas
20-35
AthleticCollaborativeMathematicalPreciseTactile
  • How to install and repair single-ply roofing systems, shingles, shakes and other roofing tiles 
  • How to install sheet metal flashings  
  • How to install, repair or replace roofing systems 
  • How to apply waterproof coatings to concrete or other masonry surfaces 
  • How to set up scaffolding 
  • How to estimate materials required and quote costs 

Roofers are tradespeople who enjoy working with their hands in a unique environment. They don’t shy away from heights or hard work, and they take great satisfaction in doing precise and important work

As a Roofer, you’ll install, repair and replace flat roofs and shingles, shakes and other roofing tiles on all types of buildings.  

You’ll demonstrate your hands-on and precise work method as you prepare roofs and conduct repairs and installation. Whether working with a team or independently, you’ll use your skills to plan site layouts and see your efforts unfold in a finished product. 

15.00
3.00
Training Hours
4950
False

Program Updates

Program Information 

and REsources

In effect starting September 1, 2022

Exam Information

and Resources

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

Updates:

Information:

Updates:

  • To be implemented

Updates:

March 2023: Program Update (IP Exams aligned to 2020 Red Seal Occupational Standards (RSOS)) A Comparative Analysis detailing changes between the 2012 National Occupational Analysis (NOA) and 2020 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 refer to the application form on whether this trade qualifies.

  • Dexterity 
  • Specialized tool use 
  • Materials estimating and ordering 
  • Roofing replacement preparation 
  • Roofing 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.

Powerline Technician

Powerline

Technician 

powerline technicians
Manufacturing Construction
32-54
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:

Standardized Level Exam Updates:

  • None

Program Information

and resources

Exam Information

AND RESOURCES

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

Updates:

  • To be implemented.

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.

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 refer to the application form on whether this trade qualifies.

  • 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.