Apprenticeship Recognition Month celebrates skilled trades (flickr.com)

Media Contacts

Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training

Media Relations
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Backgrounders

What people are saying about skilled trades

Shelley Gray, chief executive officer, Industry Training Authority –

“Apprenticeship Recognition Month is an annual opportunity for us to highlight the achievement and continuing contribution of apprentices and acknowledge how vital skilled trades are to building a stronger future for our province. As our organization is transitioning to our new name SkilledTradesBC with an expanded mandate to advance skilled trades and apprenticeship training, we are committed to continue working with employers, training providers and partners across industry to break down barriers, create opportunities, and provide support to apprentices throughout their journey.”

Karen Dearlove, executive director, BC Centre for Women in the Trades –

“We are working to create a diverse, equitable and inclusive skilled trades industry, where all feel welcome, healthy, respected, and safe. Apprenticeship Recognition Month provides opportunities to consider how we can support diversity and inclusion in the apprenticeship system, and nurture an equitable, successful, and robust skilled trades industry.”

Al Phillips, president, BC Building and Construction Trades Council –

“If folks are looking for challenging, well-paying jobs with good benefits and plenty of room for growth, look no further than the unionized skilled trades. The BC Building Trades is the number one trainer of skilled tradespeople in B.C. Our more than a dozen training schools give aspiring tradespeople the tools they need to launch a successful career. We’re pleased to see the provincial government acknowledging the importance of B.C.’s trades training system with Apprenticeship Recognition Month.”

Raven Hillenbrand, piping instructor, UA Piping Industry College of BC –

“I always remind students never to be afraid to ask questions and not to be discouraged when they make a mistake. As I like to say, it’s a learning lesson and this is how we grow and as apprentices – it’s a part of learning. Confidence comes with experience. Never give up.”

Allan Nichol, plumber, pipefitter, gasfitter apprentice –

“I am proud to be an apprentice in B.C. and happy to celebrate Apprenticeship Recognition Month this November. The training can be challenging, but I feel so supported by my employer, mentors and teachers along this journey. I am honoured to be a part of the skilled trades labour force in B.C. and I am happy to recognize all my fellow apprentices on their career pathway.”