Skilled Trades BC Youth Work Apprenticeship
YOUTH WORK IN TRADES - APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
Youth Work In Trades is a high school Dual Credit Program that provides students 15 – 18 year olds with the opportunity to begin an apprenticeship while still in high school. Students must be employed (paid) in an apprentice able trade. Most students’ work does not interfere with their school day. Youth Work in Trades can be completed on weekends, evenings, summer holidays, or on a special release from school if the timetable will permit. This is a wonderful opportunity to get a head start on a trade while completing secondary school graduation. While also qualifying for a $1000 financial award from the Ministry of Education!
Program Benefits
Youth Work in Trades lets students get started in a trade while still in high school. That means you could be working in your field, learning from experts and earning a paycheque — all before you graduate!
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​Earn 16 credits towards graduation (480 Hours)
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Be eligible to receive a $1,000.00 financial award from the Ministry of Education (900 Hours)
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Get $1,000.00 tax credit after completion of your Level 1
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To Be Eligibe to Recieve the $1000 Financial Award:
Students must have:
• Registered with the Industry Training Authority as a Youth Apprentice
• Graduated with a Grade 12 Dogwood Diploma or Adult Dogwood
• Successfully completed WRK 11A, WRK 11B, WRK 12A, and WRK 12B courses (480 hours)
• Maintained a C+ average or better on Grade 12 numbered courses *
• Reported a total of at least 900 hours to Skilled Trades BC by June 30th of the school year the student turns 19 **
Not sure if your job qualifies? Click here: Skilled Trades BC Approved Trades List
Looking for an Employer Sponsor?
I'm not working yet, what Trades are available?
Good with your hands, natural problem solver, creative spirit, or all of the above? There’s a place for you in trades. With over 95 trade programs to choose from, you’ve got options. Explore the trades and figure out what gets your brain fired up, makes your blood pump faster and puts a smile on your face.
On-the-job training is a critical part of your learning and one of the most rewarding aspects of apprenticeship. Finding an employer who is willing to mentor and sponsor you will be one of the biggest challenges you face, but there are steps you can take to increase your chances of landing and keeping a job.
STEP 1: FIND OUT WHO’S HIRING
Search WorkBC’s Apprenticeship Job Match at www.workbc.ca/trades to find companies that are looking for apprentices in your trade.
Contact your local Board of Trade, Chamber of Commerce or WorkBC centre to find smaller companies that may not always advertise jobs.
Go to local events like job fairs to connect with companies that hire your trade.
Let people know you’re looking for a job, including family members, their friends and other adults.
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STEP 2: GET READY
Find out how to apply. Depending on the industry or company. you may submit an application online or show up at the job site.
Highlight relevant skills and experiences on your resume. Do you have a First Aid Certificate? Did you take Woodworking 12? Do you regularly change the oil on your car?
Practice your pitch. Be ready to explain who you are and why you want to work for this company in particular.
STEP 3: GET THE JOB
Be professional. Dress suitably, user respectful language, and make sure your email address and outgoing voicemail messages are work-appropriate.
Smile before you say hello on the phone. It changes your voice and gives a good first impression.
Keep a record of when and where you apply. That way, you can follow up later.
Don’t give up! It can take between 12 and 15 applications to get an interview or even hear back.
STEP 4: START OFF RIGHT
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Have a positive attitude. Be willing to begin at the bottom and work your way up.
Come prepared. Bring your lunch and any necessary tools or gear.
Find out the cell phone policy – and follow it.
Ask questions if you don’t understand the instructions.
Be ready to work overtime. Many trades don’t follow the clock.
Don’t stand around. If you’ve finished your job, tidy your workspace.
Talk to your supervisor if you have any concerns.
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions?
Chris Ovelson
Apprenticeship Coordinator
1040 Hollywood Road S
Kelowna, BC
(250) 860-9729 ext. 6265
​chris.ovelson@sd23.bc.ca
Hidden Apprenticeship Letter
Please email your completed Youth Apprentice & Sponsor Registration Form to: Chris.Ovelson@sd23.bc.ca
APPRENTICE HIRING PROJECT - Employer Info.
Funded by the Government of Canada's Apprenticeship Service and administrated by Okanagan College, the AHP is making funding available to small and medium-sized employers.