Plumber Apprenticeship Harmonized
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Red Seal apprenticeship pathway |
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Domestic applicants only |
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Overview
Learn from expert instructors and get real-world experience on the job. NIC's apprenticeship pathway includes four levels of in-school training. Each level takes 6 to 8 weeks. You'll also complete four years (6,300 hours) of on-the-job apprenticeship training.
Gain the skills you need to succeed in residential, commercial and industrial settings, and specialize in:
- Plumbing
- Steam fitting
- Sprinkler fitting
- Gas fitting
This program follows criteria set by SkilledTradesBC. This means you'll graduate with the skills and hands-on experience needed to meet industry standards.
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:
- Coveralls or work wear
- Steel toe boots or shoes (CSA-approved)
- Safety glasses (CSA-approved)
- Hard hat
Classroom supplies:
- Sharp Electronic Calculator # EL-344R or equivalent
(For the exam administered by SkilledTradesBC, they will provide candidates with the Sharp EL520WBBK for use during the exam. This will be the only calculator permitted in the exam). - HB pencils
- Highlite marker
- Plastic rule - 12”
- Binder and note paper
- Textbooks and learning guides for the level
Drafting equipment:
- Staedtler 987-18-31 Imperial scale rule
- Staedtler 987-19-SI Metric scale rule
- Staedtler 964-08-60 Triangles 8” or larger
- Nine-piece Student Math Set 550 60S
Careers
This education pathway will help you get ready to become a Red Seal certified Plumber, Pipe Fitter or Sprinkler Fitter.
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.
"NIC has been the best experience that I've had in my schooling. My instructors were amazing. They opened my eyes to new ways of thinking and how to approach the world."
Megan Borland - NIC alum
"The instructors will make time for you; they really helped me become more confident in myself."
Naomi Johnson - NIC alum
“I grew up in the Comox Valley and really liked living here. I was looking for an opportunity to start my post-secondary education without going too far and I was really drawn by NIC’s small classes, being local and saving a bit of money was a nice perk."
Nolan deWitt - NIC 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:
- Automotive Collision and Refinishing Foundation
- Automotive Service Technician Foundation
- Carpentry Foundation
- Electrician Foundation
- Fabricator-Welder Foundation
- Furniture and Joinery
- Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation
- Instrumentation and Electrical Automation
- Motor Sport and Power Equipment (motorcycle) Foundation
- Plumbing and Piping trades Foundation
- Parts and Warehousing Foundation
- Trades Sampler
- Welder Foundation
Typically, NIC offers:
- Pre-apprenticeship (Foundation) programs: Level 1 Foundation training to prepare for entry-level positions.
- Apprenticeship programs: A combination of on-the-job training and classroom instruction, Level 1-4.
- Specialized certifications: Training in specific skills or safety standards, such as welding or forklift operation.
The duration depends on the type of program, but generally are:
- Pre-apprenticeship programs: Level 1 training is about 24-36 weeks.
- Apprenticeship levels: Typically 5 to 17 weeks in-class training per level, with multiple levels required for certification. There are usually 4 levels required to complete before writing the Red Seal certification exams.
- Certifications: Often a few weeks to a few months.
- To find an employer willing to sponsor you as an apprentice.
- To register with your province’s apprenticeship authority.
- To attend required technical training at a college.
NIC can help with these steps, reach out to the Trades department at trades-technicalprograms@nic.bc.ca
Yes, trades students may qualify for:
- Government grants or tax credits.
- Apprenticeship incentives for both students and employers.
- Scholarships or bursaries specific to trades programs.
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
