As part of B.C.’s Look West strategy, Okanagan College is receiving 256 new skilled-trades training seats to deliver 5,000 new trades training seats in 2026-27.
This expansion will help people train in programs in trades leading to good-paying jobs that support the region and the province’s fast-growing economy.
“With more than $88 billion in proposed projects across British Columbia, we are ensuring young people can build a good life here in the Okanagan and across the province,” said Premier David Eby. “By boosting skilled-trades training, we’re making sure British Columbians are first in line for jobs and career opportunities ahead.”
The new seats will reduce wait lists for in-demand apprenticeship programs, introduce more young people to trades and increase training capacity in high-demand careers, including:
- construction and housing
- critical minerals
- automotive
- manufacturing
- clean energy.
Kelowna is B.C.’s third-largest aerospace hub, home to approximately 18 per cent of the province’s aerospace companies. The sector relies on skilled-trades workers such as sheet-metal mechanics, welders and electricians. These occupations are also in demand across construction, maritime and natural-resource industries.
A partnership between Okanagan College and the BPL Legacy Foundation/KF Aerospace is enabling construction of a new aerospace training facility. Once complete, it will expand aircraft maintenance-engineer program capacity from 64 to 144 students per year by 2028.
B.C. is investing $241 million over three years to train British Columbians for in-demand trades jobs.
