The B.C. government is supporting hands-on carpentry training in Williams Lake to increase the number of people pursuing careers in skilled trades.
This initiative includes a new mass timber course at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) in Williams Lake, developed in partnership with the Industry Training Authority (ITA) and the BC Construction Association. The course, which began in May 2022, provides students with skills in mass timber construction, a growing sector in B.C.'s construction industry. Students gain practical experience through projects such as building gazebos for local First Nations communities.
Funding for the program is provided through the provincial government, aiming to enhance B.C.'s skilled trades workforce. The program is part of a broader provincial strategy to address labour shortages in various sectors, including construction. Graduates of such programs can contribute to the provincial economy and may find pathways to permanent residency through skilled trades immigration programs.
Students in the mass timber course receive training from experienced instructors and are exposed to real-world construction techniques. The curriculum focuses on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring graduates are job-ready. This training is crucial for meeting the demand for skilled workers in British Columbia's rapidly developing construction sector.
Local partnerships are key to the success of this program. Collaboration between educational institutions, industry bodies, and government ensures that the training provided aligns with current industry needs and standards. This approach helps to create a direct link between training programs and employment opportunities, benefiting both students and employers in the region.
Source: BC Government News (https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2026SDPR0013-000871)