Jessie Sunner, Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, has released the following statement in celebration of Construction and Skilled Trades Month:

“April is Construction and Skilled Trades Month in British Columbia, a time to recognize and celebrate the highly skilled tradespeople whose knowledge, training and expertise contribute to our economy and keep our province running strong. Through years of hands-on learning, technical education and mentorship, tradespeople develop the precision, problem-solving ability and craftsmanship that are essential to safe, high-quality work across every sector.

“From apprentices just beginning their careers to certified journeypersons and Red Seal professionals, tradespeople represent a workforce grounded in rigorous training and continuous learning. Today, nearly 50,000 people are registered as apprentices. Last year, more than 6,000 people became Red-Seal-certified trades professionals.

“With 40% of the federal government’s major projects taking place here in our province, the demand for skilled trades workers has never been greater. That’s why our government is making a landmark $241-million investment over three years to double annual skilled trades training funding. This investment is focused on modernizing and stabilizing the trades system so people can access the skills needed for good-paying jobs in the trades, while employers can rely on a capable, well-trained workforce.

“As we grow and strengthen the skilled-trades workforce, our government continues working with post‑secondary institutions, employers, unions and industry partners to ensure people in all regions of British Columbia can access the training, apprenticeship opportunities and the on-the-job experience they need to succeed.

“Construction and Skilled Trades Month is an opportunity to thank the apprentices who are building their futures, the tradespeople who mentor and lead by example, and the educators, post-secondary institutions, employers, unions and industry partners who support their success.

“I invite all British Columbians to take time this month to recognize the essential work of tradespeople and to celebrate the vital contributions they make to our communities.”

Learn More:

• For information about the Look West Strategy's skilled-trades training investment, visit: https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2025PSFS0052-001123
• Read the Construction and Skilled Trades Month Proclamation here: https://www.bclaws.gov.bc.ca/civix/document/id/proclamations/proclamations/ConstructionSkilledTradesMth2026