CaDCR staff writer
SkilledTradesBC released its annual training report last week, highlighting a record number of apprentices, youth, Indigenous people and women participating in the skilled trades in the province in 2022/2023 fiscal year.
“We are in a critical time to diversify and grow the skilled trades workforce in B.C. as we face a skilled labour shortage and anticipate 83,000 jobs in skilled trades over the next decade,” said Shelley Gray, CEO, SkilledTradesBC. “There is a place for everyone in skilled trades and we are excited to see a record number of diverse British Columbians exploring skilled trades as a means to support their families, build a successful career, and contribute to the communities that make this province our home.”
Highlights from the report include:
- 41,000 apprentices (+8%) in skilled trades
- 1,072 women entering underrepresented skilled trades (+ 37 per cent)
- 10,018 youth participation in skilled trades enrollment (+14 per cent)
SkilledTradesBC’s recently released strategic plan includes a focus on shifting the perception of the trades, diversity and meaningful reconciliation. The organization is also leading the implementation of Skilled Trades Certification, helping ensure that trades training and certification is valued, and the skills of tradespeople are formally recognized.
Read the report here.
