Carpentry Apprenticeship Harmonized
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Red Seal apprenticeship pathway |
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Domestic applicants only |
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Overview
Build your carpentry career in BC's growing construction industry with this apprenticeship pathway. You'll learn from expert faculty in well-equipped workshops, gaining both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.
You’ll learn:
- Site layout, framing, and finishing in residential, commercial and industrial settings
- All four levels of apprenticeship technical training, meeting SkilledTradesBC standards
- Prepare for your Interprovincial Red Seal certification
- Gain a solid foundation for a rewarding career in carpentry and construction
Foundation vs. apprenticeship
There are two pathways to your red seal certification.
Foundation
A certificate program that gives you the basic knowledge and skills to enter a trade. You don't need an employer/sponsor.
Apprenticeship
This pathway combines on-the-job training with classroom learning. Pick this option if you're working and sponsored by a company registered with SkilledTradesBC.
Requirements and courses
Supplies
Personal Protection Equipment
- Weather appropriate clothing
- CSA-approved steel-toed safety boots
- Safety glasses
- Hard hat
- Hearing protection
Classroom Supplies
- Sharp Electronic Calculator (# EL-520WBBK or EL-520XTB)
- HB pencils
- Hi-lite marker
- Two 2” binders and note paper
- Drafting Equipment: Available at the NIC bookstore:
- Set square - 30/60/90 degree, Staedtler 964 10-60
- Set square - 45/45/90 degree, Staedtler 964 14-45
- Scale ruler, Imperial, Architects, Staedtler 987 18-31
- Scale ruler, Metric, Staedtler 987 18-SI
- Drawing compass, 559-09
- Good quality white eraser
- Non-mechanical pencils in: 6H, 4H, & 2H lead
Personal Tools
(To be confirmed by instructor after class begins)
- Tool belt
- Tape measure 25’/8M (metric, imperial, or combo)
- Chalk line
- 2’ level (optional)
- Nail puller
- Framing square (steel or aluminum, optional)
- Cross cut handsaw (10 point, optional)
- Utility knife and blades
- Speed square
- Framing hammer
Careers
This education pathway will help you get ready to become a Red Seal certified Carpenter. Carpenters may work for construction companies, carpentry contractors, maintenance departments or be self employed.
$62,568*
Annual median estimated earnings for carpenters in BC.
Career profile*Based on WorkBC data
Costs
Check the table below for estimated costs for the full program.
Curious about funding?
Financial support is available. Learn more about financial aid and awards.
How to apply
Apply for this program through EducationPlannerBC. After you’ve applied, you’ll receive an email from NIC with your next steps. Be sure to add @nic.bc.ca to your safe sender list.
Questions? We’re with you along the way. To contact a recruiter, email futurestudents@nic.bc.ca.
“I couldn’t have been happier choosing NIC. The staff, the alumni and the faculty were bar none some of the best people and instructors that I’ve had. I’ve gone to university in the past and I enjoyed this program a lot more. I had previous industry experience, so I was also able to help my classmates."
Levi Bauder - NIC Carpentry Apprenticeship alum
"I have a job waiting for me at JM’s Mobile Welding in Port Hardy. I’m excited to use the skills I’ve learned at NIC to help further my career in welding and metal fabrication."
Michael Gravelle - NIC Welding Level B alum
"The student-to-instructor ratio is low, so you get a lot of hands-on time and time to ask questions and really delve into the materials. I would definitely recommend coming here."
Cassandra Kuryliak - NIC Plumbing Apprenticeship alum
"I am really enjoying pursuing my career as an electrician. My NIC training has helped to prepare me with the knowledge to feel confident that I will succeed in the industry. Having access to a great trades training facility and the expert faculty has made a big difference."
Jennie Lawrence - NIC Electrician Apprenticeship Harmonized alum
Your path to Red Seal Certification
Frequently asked questions
Trades training prepares students for hands-on careers in skilled trades such as construction,
mechanics, electrical work, plumbing, culinary and more. Programs combine classroom
learning with practical, industry-specific skills. NIC’s trades programs include: Typically, NIC offers: The duration depends on the type of program, but generally are: NIC can help with these steps, reach out to the Trades department at trades-technicalprograms@nic.bc.ca Yes, trades students may qualify for: NIC can give you information around funding and scholarships, reach out to the Trades
department at trades-technicalprograms@nic.bc.ca Absolutely! Colleges and industries actively encourage diversity in trades and often
offer supports, mentorship programs, and funding for women and underrepresented groups. NIC has funding available, reach out to the Trades department at trades-technicalprograms@nic.bc.ca
