Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, has released the following statement on Apprenticeship Recognition Month:

“November marks Apprenticeship Recognition Month in British Columbia – a time to proudly celebrate the critical work apprentices do to build a stronger, more resilient province. Skilled tradespeople are the backbone of our communities. They build the infrastructure we depend on, maintain our homes, schools, hospitals and businesses, and lay the foundation for our growing economy.

“British Columbia is positioning itself to be the engine of Canada’s new economy. We are fast-tracking major projects that will deliver prosperity for our province and our country, and they will rely on a strong and agile skilled-trades workforce.

“In the past year, a record number of people have stepped up to build their future in the skilled trades. Throughout B.C., nearly 17,000 people registered as apprentices in 2025, bringing the total number of apprentices to nearly 50,000. More than 11,000 youth participated in skilled trades, and more than 6,000 people became Red-Seal-certified trades professionals. 

“It’s inspiring to see so many people pursuing careers in the skilled trades. At a time when British Columbians are facing many challenges, the trades offer an opportunity to have good-paying, meaningful careers that shape our communities.

“This progress is made possible by the incredible collaboration across the province. Post-secondary institutions, industry partners, unions and employers are working together to prepare the next generation of skilled workers. Among them, organizations like the B.C. Building Trades have shown strong leadership and commitment to training, mentoring and supporting apprentices. Collectively, their efforts help ensure our workforce is skilled, safe and ready for the future. 

“Apprenticeship Recognition Month is about celebrating tradespeople. It highlights the apprentices who are shaping their futures, the employers who mentor and train, and the educators who provide the foundation for success. There’s more work to do, and our government is committed to working together to close the skills and training gap, creating opportunities for British Columbians in every region of the province.

“I encourage everyone to take a moment to celebrate and appreciate the incredible contributions apprentices make every day to keep B.C. strong and thriving.”