File image of construction workers at work. (Image Credit: Pattison Media)

By Rohini Arora, MLA for Burnaby East and Deputy Caucus Chair

Opinion

YOUR PERSPECTIVE: The future of skilled trades in B.C.

Jan 28, 2026 | 10:00 AM

Communities across British Columbia are growing rapidly, and with that growth comes a clear need: more skilled tradespeople to help build and maintain the places we all rely on, like our homes, schools, hospitals, and community infrastructure. As an MLA, I hear every day how important it is that we prepare people for these in‑demand careers. That’s why our government is making historic investments in skilled trades training and ensuring British Columbians can access the education they need close to home.

We’ve been focused on expanding training options so people can develop the skills required for rewarding careers in the trades. That includes cutting waitlists, modernizing equipment, and strengthening certification programs. These efforts are paying off. Across the province, we’re seeing record numbers of people registering as apprentices, earning certifications, and moving into higher‑wage jobs that support families and strengthen local economies.

Young people are being introduced to trade pathways earlier than ever, and adults looking to re‑skill or return to school are finding affordable, accessible options that don’t require starting from scratch. Provincewide, we’re funding 28,000 trades training seats, including 21,800 apprentice seats. Today, nearly 50,000 British Columbians are registered apprentices, and more than 11,000 youth are already exploring trades careers. 

In the Fraser Valley, the University of the Fraser Valley is expanding access to high‑quality trades and technical training, giving more people the chance to build in‑demand skills close to home. Thanks to the StrongerBC future skills grant, residents can receive up to $3,500 toward short‑term programs at UFV, helping them upgrade or retrain without taking on extra debt. UFV is among the public institutions offering programs in areas like construction, automotive repair, and wildfire response, all aligned with local labour‑market needs. As B.C. transitions toward a sustainable green economy, these programs also support stable, long‑term jobs in the natural resource sector, where new technologies and climate‑focused practices are creating fresh opportunities for skilled workers. These opportunities, combined with UFV’s modern Trades and Technology Centre in Chilliwack, make it easier than ever for people in the region to step into stable, good paying careers.

Having strong and secure careers also means strengthening the connection between industry and post‑secondary institutions. By working closely with employers, we’re ensuring programs can adapt quickly to emerging needs, whether that’s construction, natural resources, advanced manufacturing, or clean‑energy technologies. These partnerships help students gain the skills employers are actively seeking, even as industries evolve.

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Carpenters, electricians, mechanics, equipment operators, and other tradespeople play a vital role in building strong, resilient communities. With some trades offering wages of up to $53 an hour, these careers provide long‑term stability and a pathway to lasting economic opportunity.

Building a strong workforce means ensuring that anyone who wants to pursue skilled trades has the opportunity to do so. That’s why it’s equally important to ensure women across all industries have access to affordable, reliable childcare so they can fully benefit from the pathways we’re creating. When parents know their children are safe and supported, they’re better able to enter the workforce, stay in their careers, and build the secure futures these opportunities are meant to deliver.

If you or someone you know is considering a career in the trades, now is an excellent time to explore the possibilities. Learn more about training options, apprenticeships, and career pathways at SkilledTradesBC.ca

Together, we’re building a stronger, more resilient British Columbia.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of Fraser Valley Today or Pattison Media.